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BIOGRAPHICAL DICTIONARY, 



CONTAINING 



4 BRIEF ACCOUNT 



FIRST SETTLERS, 

AND 

PTHER EMINENT CHARACTERS 

AMONG THE 

MAGISTRATES, MINISTERS, 
LITERARY AND WORTHY MEN, 

IN 

NEW-ENGLAND. 



BY JOHN ELIOT, D.D. 

Porrt^poading Sccrcury uf ih^Wa^sachusctts Histoiicftl Society. 



These were honoured in their generations, and were the glory of 
their times. Son of Hi/rnch, 



PUBLISHED BY GUSHING AND APrtETON, SAtEM, 
AND BDWAEO OLIVER, NO. 70, STATE STREET, BOSTON. 
1809. .^' 

B. OLIVER, TRINTE^. 






^ 



DISTRICT OP AUSS ACCUSE TTS^To -wit. 

RE IT REMEMBERED, that on the eighth day of September in the 

BE I ' "■•^•'''\'' i„deDcndence of the United States of America, John 
thirty fourth year of thlndepen^^^^^^^^ ^.^ ^^^^ ^^ .^^ ^^ ^ 

B^rrSt wi-^^^^^^^^^^ asPrrpnetor. in the words fo,io..ng-.o, 

,„confom.ty.o the Act ^^ ^ ^g^; ^^ ^^^V^s Sl^, 
.. An Act for the encouragement of ^f^'"'"/ : ^^ f ^" /d, Copies, during the 
Charts and Books, to the Authors and P-P-jf^J^^j^ ^ah act sl-pplementa- 
timestheeir. mentioned ;' and ^\*;J°'^^^^''^^j'^ learning, by securing 
rr t.. an Act. entitled an Act ^^^''^^.f "^'^'^^.^l^^Lrs and Propriet^s of «uch 
the • "opie. of Maps. Cluirts and ^"^^.'•^^.^'''L^d^'g^gnding the benefits there- 
Copies during the times theremment^o^^^^^^^ ,„, ,,,,, 

of to the Art* of Dengniiig, Engraving an ^^^^^^^ ^^ SHAW, 
Prints." Clerk of the JDutrict of Moimbusetlt. 



PREFACE. 



— •IBu:.•J!3SI^®l=^•l®^^|i2SSSSssa«l■ 



FOR the credit of human nature, some men have appeared 
^in every age, who adorned their lives by good actions, or their 
publick stations by the dignity, virtue, and splendid excellencies 
of their characters. Memoirs of such persons excite a lively inter- 
est, and, trom adminng their extraordinary qualities, we desire to 
see them in various attitudes, and to know the incidents of their 
private life. Hence encouragement is given to works of biogra- 
phy, which, in some form or other, are daily issuing from the 
press. Even short sketches of eminent men have been thought 
instructive, as well as entertaining. 

The first discoverers of this quarter of the globe possessed the 
spirit of enterprise in a very uncommon degree. The fathers of 
New England were remarkable for their piety and moral worth, 
and also for their active virtues. They were men of firmness and 
resolution, ready to endure every suffering, for the sake of civil 
and religious freedom. They had to level forests where savage 
beasts, and savage men had roamed for ages, and to make com- 
fortable dwelling places amidst barren deserts. By their sagaci- 
ty and prudence, their attention to the means of improving their 
situation, they soon enjoyed the blessings of civilized and cultivat- 
ed society. Among the first planters, we find men of genius and 
literary acquirements, who would have been conspicuous as 
statesmen in the courts of Europe, or as divines of the church of 
England. It is no wonder that their characters were so highly 
esteemed by the puritans in tlieir own country, or that they shone 
as lights in the dark places of this American wilderness. Cot- 
ton, Hooker and Davenport might well rank with the Lightfoots 
and Owens of the age ; they had equal reputation as scholars at 
the universities. President Chauncy, as professor of Greek or 
Hebrew, had no superiour, and might have had anv preferment in 
the national church, if he hail become subservient to the views ©f 



iv PREFACE. 

archbishop Laud. Norton wrote Latin with elegance and purity ; 
his name was celebrated in various nations of l.urope. Less is 
said about Roger Williams before he left his native country. He 
was young, and perhaps did not preach with the same force as he 
wrote. All who peruse his works will wonder at the vast expan- 
sion of his mind, and lament the eccentricities of his conduct. 

The succeeding generation bore a resemblance to their fathers 
in their character, but were not equal to them in erudition. The 
Writer of the Magnalia divides into three classes the eminent 
preachers, who emigrated to New England. The first were in 
Ihc exercise of tlieir ministry when they came over. They were 
educated either at Oxford, Or Cambridge. I'he second class 
compreliends those, whose education was unfinished, and had 
only such advantages to complete it, as they could obtain in the 
plantations. Mr. John Higginson, Mr. Sherman and Thomas 
Thacher were the most famous among them. The third con- 
sisted of those who were ejected from the ministry, after the res- 
toration of the monarchy, and establishment of the episcopal 
church. These were pious and good men ; but in their literary 
accomplishments they were not superiour to those who were 
educated at Harvard College, which was the only seminary in 
North America for many years. This institution could not vie 
with the colleges in Europe for endowments ; but during the 
civil wars of England, the universities lost their ablest professors, 
"and less attention was paid to the means of making eminent schol- 
ars. We may well suppose that polite literature would fall pros- 
trate with the laVvs of the realm. Few went to the pure fountains 
of classical knowledge, though many Greek and Roman authors 
""were read. The works of their theologians, some of whom were 
"^great and excellent men, displayed the stores of learning with- 
out the skill and graces of composition. The quaint style and 
manner, which then prevailed in England, was imitated by our 
Aitierican divines. They were as much disgusted with the 
works of the l-.nglish writers, who lived in the reign of Charles or 
* of William, as the most famous authors in Great Britain, in those 
i'eigns, were disgusted with the writings of the preceding age. 
Cotton Mather, the most voluminous .American author, and a man 
t)f immense learning, has very little credit with the present gene- 
'i'ation, because his narrations are so piolix, and so many strange 



PREFACE. V 

tilings occur in so strange a style. He was a man of unbounded 
fancy, astonishing memory, but of no judgment. With his 
marvellous stories he has, however, collected many facts, and it 
\vould be unpardonable if the author of this work did not pay a 
tribute to his memory. Every writer of the affairs of Massachu- 
setts is much indebted to him for the use of his materials. 

From the date of the new charter we find very few leading cha- 
rarters, who were not born and bred in the colonies . There was 
no great encouragement for men, who had genius and talents, to 
come over to New England for the sake of gaining a subsistence. 
At this time, it has been said, that learning was at a low ebb in our 
covmtry. A late writer has thus described the collfege at New 
Haven : " The students had heard of a certain new and strange 
philosophy in vogue in England, and the names of Boyle, Locke 
and Newton had reached them, but they were not suffered to 
think that any valuable improvenrtents were to be expected from 
philosophical innovations"* This description is much exagger- 
ated by the prejudices of a party vrriter. One of the governours 
of Connecticut had been the intimate friend of Mr. Boyle, and 
was a principal founder of the royal society. Two of the corpo- 
ration of Harvard College were fellows of the royal society at this 
very time, and the mode of instruction was the same in both se- 
minaries. Can we suppose that the Newtonian philosophy was 
not adopted, or that the first characters in their churches and col- 
leges were sitting so contentedly in the shades of ignorance ? 
From our sketches it will appear, that we had at this period not 
only students in the new philosophy, but scholars who excelled in 
polite learning. Philological inquiries grew fashionable, and very 
excellent productionsappearedfromthe hands of gentlemen in civil 
life, as well as from the clergy. It is true that these were days of 
tranquillity, and such times are not favourable to great exertions. 
If we except the disturbances, which were caused by Indian warsj 
we can hardly conceive of a more happy state of society, than 
New England exhibited for the first half of the 18lh century. 
The people were submissive to the laws. There was oitler in 
the cities, peace in the villages, and religion in the temples . These 
are not the times to display great talents any more than great 

C/ia77dter's life of Dr. Johnson, president of King's College. 



VI IPREFACE. 

crimes. When occasion called forth the exertions of Americaii 
citizens, they discovered vigour, abilities, as well as patriotisnij 
strong and manly virtues with political skill, and all that energj^ 
of character necessary for raising provinces into an empire. 
During the course of the war, the officers of the American army 
showed courage and magnanimity. They were brave, active, 
with a spirit of enterprise, and would have obtained distinction in 
the armies of Europe. The members of the first congress were 
viewed with admiration bordering on enthusiasm. Their abilities 
as statesmen, and their political integrity,did honour to the United 
States, and gained them respect from the great men of other na- 
tions. They certainly have a claim upon the gratitude of poster- 
ity. If more particular attention have been paid to one part ot this 
biographical work, it is in doing justice to the characters of those 
who lived between the peace of Paris, and the commencement of 
the American revolution. The age of the writer made every 
thing impressive. He was acquainted with those who were ac- 
tive in our publick concerns, and has been favoured with written 
accounts, that are strengthened by the opinion and conversatien of 
those who are still alive. Whenever he has recurred to the pub- 
lications of the day, he has endeavoured to gain collateral evidence 
to make the representation just. In writing biography we ought 
to be very careful about taking the character from newspapers. 
Facts are not always to be depended upon; characters very sel- 
dom. If the deceased had virtues they are exaggerated by his 
friends ; and how often are particular delineations made by those 
"who knew not the man ! A pen is employed which is elegant, and 
if the sketch is done in the best manner, there is no inquiry whe- 
ther it be true ? If we had no other knowledge of men, but what 
■we get from newspapers, would there be a proper discriminaiiolt 
betv/een the good and bad members of society ? 

A remark of a similar kind may be made upon funeral ser- 
mons. If ihey are not in the style of eulogy they are not prmted. 
What the preacher says he doubtless believes ; but how often is 
his opinion different from that of his audience ? How many fu- 
litral orators paint nothing ? Such performances require a nice 
and delicate pencil to finish; but,in general, they are the most un- 
saidied compositions of their authors. This is not, however, what 
ifirst excited the remark. Our objection is, that they are not pure 



PREFACE. Tii 

sources of information. A preacher is to say nothin?^ but good 
of the dead ; a writer of lives nothing but the truth ; for he exhi- 
bits men as they were. The preacher is apt to give a general 
view of the characters ; it is the object of the biographer to enter 
into the most minute details. All funeral sermons, however, are 
not liable to the same censure. Those preached upon the death 
of ministers sometimes bring an obscure clergyman into view, 
who preferred the shade, as the most agreeable situation, bat 
whose virtues and talents ought to be known, that others might 
be stimulated by the example. On the other hand, preachers 
often say better things of their brethren than they deserve ; 
upon no occasion is friendship or flattery more indelicate- 
ly manifested. The reputation of the deceased depends in 
some measure upon the orator. If his performance be admired, 
strangers who read it will think highly of the subject. If the dis- 
course be dull or inelegant, it perhaps is not printed, and ho cha- 
racter published. However eminent the deceased was in life, he 
is not known beyond the line of his near acquaintance, among 
whom his reputation is long preserved by a most affectionaVe re- 
membrance. 

The author of this work has taken the freedom to mingle his 
•wn observations with the documents received from others. His 
taste always led him to collect curious mss. and ancient books ; he 
was favoured with many letters of the Hutchinson and Oliver 
families ; and had free access to the books and mss. of the Massa- 
chusetts Historical Society. He has mostly written from one 
general mass ofinformation,which he has been many years in col- 
lecting ; but where he has been indebted for principal facts he has 
pointed to the main source of his intelligence. The original de- 
sign was to give a view of eminent men in North America. The 
difficulty of obtaining documents, or such peculiar notices as are 
necessary for proper delineations of characters, induced the writ- 
er to confine himself to New England Some articles in its pres- 
ent form are omitted, which would be equally interesting as those 
which appear. Certain notices, which he expected to receive, did 
not arrive till it was too late for their insertion. He particularly 
regrets the omission of judge Trowbridge of Cambridge, gov. 
Jenks of Rhode Island, Mr. Hobart of Fairfield, Mr. Ellsworth, 
Mr. Tracy, and several other gentlemen of distinction in Con- 
necticut, 



Viii PREFACE. 

In the beginning of the work, several lives are disproportionato 
to the general scale, which obliged the author to compress th^ 
articles in other parts, and under the last letters of the alphabet 
to introduce no person who has died since the commencement of 
the nineteenth century. Among those are several magistrates of 
this state, president VVillard and professor Tappan of Cambridge, 
and several eminent clergymen Memoirs of these gentlemen 
have been published lately, and their characters ably and fully 
delineated; bqt with the addition of such names, any work would 
be materially improved. If the book should ever pass through 
another edition impi'ovements may be expected. 

For the errors which the reader may find in the following pages 
some apology ought to be made,especially for the transposition of 
several names and the misplacing of figures in the dates. These 
arecorrected among other typographical errata. One name is in- 
troduced, page 35 1, which ought not to appear among persons de-r 
ceased. Those who thought the information of his death correct, 
are happy to learn that the gentleman still lives. 

In the course of his proceeding the author has been indebted 
to several friends for their suggestions, encouragement and assist- 
ance Without their kind attentions his labour would have been 
wearisome. The delicacy and warmth of their friendship 
have excited sensations which are better felt than expressed ; 
for their literary communications, as well as tokens of their es- 
teem and affection, he begs them to accept his grateful acknowl-; 
pdgements. 



NEW-ENGLAND 
BIOGRAPHICAL DICTIONARY. 



ABBOT HULL, minister of the church ia 
Charlestown, was a native of Massachusetts ; grad- 
uated at Harvard College in 1720. Hewasamong the 
first students that were put upon Mr. Hollis's foun- 
dation, and recommended by Mr, HoUls himself, as. 
a youth meriting the benefit of the fund for indi- 
gent and good scholars. In 1 723 he was ordained, 
colleague pastor with the famous Mr. Bradstreet, 
and continued in the ministry till his death, 1774. 

He left a few printed discourses, chiefly occa- 
sional, and his character was respectable as a gen- 
tleman and divine.* 

Adams Matthew, is worthy of notice in an ac- 
count of ingenious and literary men of Boston. In the 
life of Franklin it is said, that he kindled the zeal and 
encouraged the talents of that philosopher, who had 
free access to his books; and Dr. Franklin speaks of 
him with respect and acknowledged his attentions, 
Mr. Adams was only a mechanick, but with the ad- 
vantages of a college education would have made 
considerable progress in scientifick researches, and 
been very useful at that period He was one of the 
writers in the New- England Journal. The essays 

* His printed discourses are, Artillery Election Sermon, 8vo.' 
Boston, 1735. A Sermon upon the rebellion in Scotland, 8vo. 
1746. A Sermon against profane swearing and cursing, 8v»» 
1747. 



2 4 • ADA 

he contributed were received with marks of pub. 
lick esteem, and reprinted in periodical miscellanies 
of later date. Like many other ingenious men, 
Mr. Adams lived in depressed circumstances, and 
died with a name and character rather than any 
worldly estate. He left several children, who in- 
herited his genius, one of whom was 

John Adams, minister of the church in Dur- 
ham, New-Hampshire. His father laboured to give 
him a liberal education, and he was graduated at 
Harvard College in 1745, and in a few years after 
ordained at Durham, where he continued pastor of 
the church more than twenty years. No town in 
New Kngland was ever more disturbed by fanat- 
icks than Durham. A spirit of opposition to the 
order of the churches raged there. Every man 
who received a liberal education, who wore a band 
or black coat, and held a regular service on the 
Lord's day, was called hireling, thief, wolf, and 
any thing that would make him odious. They 
after this manner insulted this pious minister, who 
had not patience to bear it, and was often inveloped 
in gloom, or ready to sink into despondency. 'I'his 
might, in some measure, be owing to the constitu- 
tion of the man. For he was in his best days, and 
when he was not exposed to peculiar trials of his 
ministry, very much the sport of his feelings. 
Sometimes he was so depressed as to seem like a 
being mingling with the dust, and suddenly would 
mount up to heaven with a bolder wing than any of 
his contemporaries. 'J his would happen frequent- 
ly in the pulpit, so that when he had been all the 
week preparing a sermon which was, according to 
his own expression as dull as his feelings, he would 
feel an exertion that would give him health, cheer- 
fulness, and new life. It was his method to take a 
new text, and give a flow to his sentiments and ex- 
pressions, which were much better than he was 
ever able to utter, with previous consideration. His 
delivery then was as lively as his fancy. In these 



ADA 3 

iiappy moments be was also a cheerful, instructive 
and entertaining companion. He could write as 
well as speak, like one who had cultivated a philo- 
ioi^ical taste. A specimen of his abilities was ex- 
hibited in a letter written to a committee of the 
town of Boston, 1774, when the Port Bill had an- 
nihilated their commerce.* 

Mr. Adams was obliged to leave Durham in the 
year 1778, in consequence of other disturbances 
than religious. He had been thought the most pro- 
per minister to live with people so entluisiastick as 
the inhabitants of Durham : for he was himself, 
from his animal frame and pious sentiments, inclin- 
ed to enthu >iasm ; had rather favoured than oppos- 
ed the New Lights in his youth, and preached the 
gospel according to the strictest sect of our forefa- 
thers ; but as one extreme succeeds another, the 
most cold indifference to every thing- of a religious 
nature was visible in the inhabitants of Durham 
during the latter part of Mr. Adams's pastoral rela- 
tion ; and they grew weary of maintain'mg a minis- 
ter, in addition to the demands of money, to carry 
on the war ; a contention arose upon the most 
frivolous pretences, and a council advised to a renio- 
ral. He was soon invited to settle at Washington, 
in the county of York, Massachusetts. With this 
flock he lived in more easy circumstances. He 
died 1793, aged about 60 years. 

Adams John Rev. a divine, a poet, a writer of es- 
says, &.C. He was the son of the Hon. John Adams, of 
Nova- Scotia, and was graduated at Harvard College, 
1701. He died at Cambridge, 1740. The fellows of 
the College were his pall-holders, and the first charac- 
ters in the state attended the funeral. His charac- 
ter was very respectable, though doubtless the eulogy 
in the Boston newspapers, was from the pen of one 
strongly prejudiced in his favour — " It deserves to 

. * There was a committee appointed to receive donations. The 
letter was accompanied with a present from the inhabitants q^" 
Durham, 



-4 ADA 

be written in letters of gold on monuments of mar- 
ble, or rather to appear and shine forth from some 
genius of uncommon sublimity and equal to his 
own. But sufficient are his immortal writir.gs to 
perpetuate his memory." His literary friends is- 
sued proposals for publishing a volume ot his ser- 
mons, but the subscription failed. They publish- 
ed a volume of poems which discover a good 
imagination and pure taste. They are equal to any 
New-England poetry of this date, though not merit- 
ing in the encomium passed upon his writings. A 
second edition was never called for. The book is 
very scarce, and ought to be preserved among the 
rare works of Americafi authors. 

He published during his life, a poem on the love 
of money, which is ingenious and satirical. It is 
not contained in the volume. 

Adams Amos, minister of the first church in Rox- 
bury, was a very popular preacher, having a voice 
uncommonly sonorous and plaintive. The energy of 
his manner in the pulpit is often mentioned by those 
who sat under his ministry. He was praised in other 
churches, as a very accomplished preacher, but 
many were disgusted with his plainness of speech, 
the length of his discourses, and his very desultory 
observations. All allowed him to discover some 
knowledge of human nature, in the addresses he 
made to his hearers. His preaching was calcula- 
ted to prick the consciences of sinners, though they 
wanted correct discrimination and smoothness of 
period. His memory was tenacious, and his read- 
ing very extensive His publications never appeared 
to satisfy the expectations of those who heard thm 
from the pulpit. They want his animated delivery.* 

* He printed several ordination sermons. A funeral sermon 
upon the death of Madam Dudley. A Thanksgiving discourse, 
1759. 

The discourses which give him the most reputation were two 
nfion r 'i.icwus liberty ; and tivo xt/ion tfu spfftriiigs of ovr JLthtrSy 
whi' h Mere re-printed in England, not as sermons, Init with the 
title of a Concise History of j\t%V'England% The evangelical , sen-* 



ADA 5 

Mr. Adams was graduated at Cambridge, 1752, 
and died at Roxbury, October, 1778, to the inex- 
pressible grief of his family and flock. At this 
time a putrid dysentery prevailed in the camp at 
Roxbury and Cambridge, which spread more than 
twenty miles in the environs of Boston. The peo- 
ple of the first church in Roxbury were very much 
scattered, but Mr. Adams was assiduous in his la- 
bours, and not only visited his own flock, but the 
soldiers who were stationed among the people of 
his parochial charge. He himself soon fell a victim 
to the disease. 

Adams Samuel, a man celebrated in the an- 
nals of America, was as remarkable for his piety 
and puritanism, in younger life, as for his political 
influence, during the contests of the \merican revo- 
lution. He was born September, 1722, in Boston. 
His ancestors were respectable, among the early 
planters of New- Kngkmd, but not sufficiently dis- 
tinguished to be inserted in a genealogical list ; and 
every kind of genealogy he affected to despise, as 
a thing which gives birth to family pride. His ed- 
ucation was liberal, having commenced his studies 
at the South Grammar School, under the care of 
Mr. Lovell. He entered Harvard College A. D. 
1736. The honours of that seminary he received 
in the years 1740 and 1743. He made a very con- 
siderable progress in classical learning, the art of 
logic, as it was then taught, as well as the elements 
of natural philosophy. But his main object was the 
study of divinity, as he was designed for the min- 
istry. 

He was always fond of systematic divinity, and 
was a Calvinist, of the straitest sect of that denomi- 
nation. It was the belief of our fathers, and he nev- 
er spake of them but with the greatest reverence. 

tiracnts are curtailed. We see little more then the dry bones 
of a skfii;ton, not well hung together. All his pvintLddiscoiuses 
are liound in two volumes, 8yo. which he presented to the CoIj- 
lege Library. 



6 ADA 

The platform of the New- England churches, in his 
view, contained every thing necessary or proper for 
the order and discipline of ecclesiastical bodies, and 
the Westminster assembly's shorter catechism^ all 
thii articles of sound doctrine. 

Why he did not engage in a profession, which 
was so congenial to his views and habits, does not 
appear ; but for many years he was uncertain what 
line of life to pursue, lie only engaged in a petty 
kind of trafficking ; his business was siiiall, his sit- 
uation humble, and he seemed to walk in the vales 
and descents of life, rather than to be formed for con- 
spicuous stations or very active scenes. The same 
political cast of mind then appeared, which influen- 
ced his conduct afterwards. If he spake of men and 
manners it was freely to canvass them ; his conver- 
sation was in praise of old times, his manners were 
austere, his remarks never favourable to the rising 
generation ; and he would depreciate the talents 
and services of those who held offices of honour 
and public trust. No man ever despised more 
those fools of fortune, whom the multitude admire ; 
and yet he thought the opinion of the common peo- 
ple in most cases to be very correct. 

As we have said his employment was humble, it 
may be proper to mention that his first office in the 
town was that of tax gatherer ; which the opposite 
party in politicks often alluded to, and in their con- 
troversies would style him Samuel the Publican, 
While the British regiments were in town, the to- 
nes enjoyed a kind of triumph, and invented every 
mode of burlesquing the popular leaders : but 
where the people tax themselves the office of col- 
lector is respectable ; it was at that time given to 
gentlemen who had seen better days, and needed 
some pecuniary assistance, having merited the es- 
teem and confidence of their fellow townsmen. 
Mr. Adams was ill qualified to fill an office which 
required such constant attention to pecuniary mat- 
ters ; and, his soul being bent on politicks, he pass- 



ADA 7 

ed more time in talking against Great Britain than 
in collecting the sums due to the town. He grew 
embarrassed in his circumstances, and was assisted, 
not only by private friends, but by many others 
who knew him only as a spirited partisan in the 
cause of liberty. 

From this time, the whigs were determined to 
support him to the utmost of their power. He had 
been always on their side, was firm and sagacious, 
one of the best writers in the newspapers, ready 
upon every question, but especially conversant with 
all matters which related to the dispute between 
Great Britain and the colonies. 

The people in the north section of the town 
were then more numerous than they have been 
since ; and were by a very large majority on the 
side of freedom. When Pownai was in the chair, 
he favoured this party, and lifted several men to of- 
fice whose merit was rather in their principles and 
notions, than in their sagacity. It answered his 
purpose, Avhich was to defeat the schemes of Hutch- 
inson : and it really had a surprising effect upon 
the transactions of the town. 

Mr. S. Adams was well acquainted with every 
shipwright, and substantial mechanick, and they 
were his firm friends through all the scenes of the 
revolution, believing that to him more than any 
other man in the community we owed our independ- 
ence. This sentiment prevailed with many who 
disliked his opinion of federal measures, and who 
would not vote for him to be governor of the com- 
monwealth. They would often say that he, from 
his age, habits and local prejudices, was not form- 
ed to mingle with politicians of a later period, 
whose views must necessarily be more comprehen- 
sive, and whose object was to restrain rather than 
give a loose to popular feelings. It was their opin- 
ion, ho v\ ever, that he did worthily in those times, 
when instead of building up a government suited 
t?o the condition of a people, we had only to puU 



8 ADA 

down a government becoming every day more ty- 
rannical. When the stamp act was the subject of 
conversation, of public resentment, and succeeding 
tumults, Mr. Adams was one of those important 
characters, who appeared to oppose it in every 
step. He did not think it amiss to pull down the 
office, though he disapproved of the riotous pro- 
ceedings which the same lawless men were guilty 
of afterwards ; for every succeeding night witness- 
ed the rage of an infatuated populace, and no man 
in any office whatever was safe in his habitation. 
If a man had any pique against his neighbour it was 
only to call him a few hard names, and his proper- 
ty would certainly be destroyed, his house pulled 
down and his life be in jeopardy. The authority of 
the town put an end to this savage conduct by 
calling out the militia ; and soon after the news of 
the repeal of the stamp act quieted the minds of all, 
classes of people. 

The taxes upon tea^ oil and colours were still 
more odious to the Americans than the stamp act ; 
especially to the inhabitants of Boston, where the 
board of commissioners was established. The peo- 
ple looked to Mr. Adams, as one of the champions 
of liberty, who must stand forth against every claim 
of Great Britain, and deny the right of the parent 
state to lay a tax ; nor were they disappointed. He 
was so strenuous in his exertions to make the peo- 
ple sensible of their charter privileges, that he ob- 
tained the appellation of the patriot Samuel Adams, 

The other members of the general court, from 
the town of Boston, were Mr. Otis, Mr. Gushing, and 
Mr. Hancock, gentlemen of the same political sen- 
timents, and united in their opposition to the claims 
of the British fninistry. Mr. Adams had frequent- 
ly delivered his sentiments in the publick pa- 
pers ; and being a ready penman was often employ- 
ed on committees to make reports, addresses, &c. 
and to vindicate the acts of the lesrislature. He as- 
sisted m writing most of tl;ie letters, which were 



ADA 9 

sent to the secretary of state. One letter addressed 
to the earl of Hillsborough was entirely his. His 
draught was accepted by the house of representa- 
tives, and, without any alteration, sent to that noble- 
man, who was supposed to be most inimical to the 
colonies of all the king's servants ; and whose name 
was never mentioned in Massachusetts without re- 
proach. 

In the year 1769, the governor removed the 
general court to Cambridge, The members con- 
sidered it as an infringement of their rights. Mr. 
Adams was on the committee to draw up their re- 
monstrances, which were warm and urgent. For 
several years the governor thus obeyed his instruc- 
tions, to keep the assembly out of Boston. There 
were some altercations among the representatives, 
whether they would proceed or not to business ; 
and when it was determined to go on, there was a 
spirited protest, in which our politician took a very- 
conspicuous part. During these sessions at Cam- 
bridge, a difference of opinion arose, upon some se- 
condary matters, between Adams and Hancock, 
which cooled their friendship, and was succeeded 
by an antipathy, that had an effect upon the minds 
of the people, many of whom took a warm interest 
in this personal animosity, though they agreed in 
political sentiments ; and acted together in the great 
affairs which arrested the attention of all the whigs. 
The first impressions were unfavourable to Mr. Ad- 
ams ; for many of the high whigs thought him aus- 
tere and rigid in his notions, that he was opinion- 
ated, and that his object was as much to mortify 
Hutchinson, and gratify his resentment against the 
tories, as to serve the cause of freedom. Hancock 
was the idol of the populace ; his spirit was gener- 
ous, he enjoyed an affluence of wealth, which he 
was ready to bestow on all publick occasions : he 
was affable, condescending, and very engaging in 
his manners. Mr. Adams preferred to be thought 
a Cato rather than a Luculhis, His friends were 



10 ADA 

lessened in number, but they were the sternest re- 
publicans ; and those, perhaps, who first dared to 
view our independence as near. They called them- 
selves the most consistent whigs. Others called 
them the restless spirits of their party, who wished 
not to have grievances redressed, but to sail upon 
troubled waves, as their own political importance 
depended upon the tumult of the people. They 
mixed in public assemblies ; used a coarser style 
of speaking in the streets ; and calculated upon the 
future scenes which would open for the emancipa. 
tion of the country. — The period soon arrived : 
The battle of Lexington gave the moderate party a 
zeal which blazed, and every man became a patri- 
ot. Adams and Hancock were proscribed soon af- 
ter by Gage's proclamation. This was all they want- 
ed to raise their reputation to the highest pitch. 
Before they could have known this, they had rea- 
son to be satisfied with the triumph of the whigs, 
and must have been fully persuaded they were safe 
in any part of the country. These gentlemen were 
at Lexington the very night the British troops left 
Boston, and it was generally supposed that part of 
the errand was to take them. They received such 
intelligence as to be on their guard. A friend of 
Mr. Adams spread a report that he spake with plea- 
sure on the occurrences of the 19th of April. *' It 
is a fine day," said he, walking in the field after the 
day dawned. " Very pleasant answered one of his 
companions," supposing him to be contemplating 
the beauties of the sky. " I mean," he replied, 
*' this day is a glorious day for America." So 
fearless was he of consequences, so intrepid in the 
midst of dangers, so eager to look forward to the 
lustre of events that would succeed the gloom which 
then involved the minds of the people. Mr. Adams 
had been a member of the continental congress the 
preceding year. Mr. Hancock from ill health was 
not a candidate for the same congress, but was pre- 
sident of the provincial assembly which bore the 



ADA 11 

name of provincial congress in Massachusetts. 
They were both members of the congress which 
sat at Philadelphia, A. D. 1775, 76, &c. 

Among the southern whigs the character of Mr. 
Adams was very high. He was looked upon as an 
able politician, though less liberal in his views, 
less informed in great questions of national concern, 
than several characters from these northern states : 
but his republican sentiments were congenial to 
the sentiments of many gentlemen of Pennsylvania 
and Virginia, who quoted his opinion with respect. 
There were, however, some southern members of 
congress who called him an indifferent statesman, 
a local politician, one whose thoughts were always 
in Fanieul Hall, and bent upon establishing the cus- 
toms of the Plymouth settlers ; or introducing the 
laws of Massachusetts, instead of that enlightened 
policy which was necessary to animate a great na- 
tion ; a nation who had to form their government, 
to adapt novel opinions to the prudence of old 
laws, to execute some of the noblest schemes ever 
designed by man, and which no other state of hu- 
man affairs had ever given them an opportunity to 
know and improve. 

Mr. Adams was chosen secretary of the state of 
Massachusetts in the year 1774, while the general 
court were at Cambridge. The business was 
performed by a deputy until the year that his seat 
was vacated in Congress. He was never after- 
wards a candidate for any office out of Massachu- 
setts government. While he sat in Congress the 
declaration of Independence was made, which he 
urged with the utmost zeal. Also the article^ of 
the old confederation to which he was always much 
attached. It was a flivorite expresbion, which he 
often gave as a toast in public companies and private 
circles — "The states utjited,Sind i\\t states separate,"^" 
There was also another matter of importance which 
took place in the autumn of 1777, when the British 
troops marched to Philadelphia, it was given out 



12 ADA 

that gen. Washington might have prevented them. 
That, ahhough an excellent and very amiable cha- 
racter, he was too much a Fabitis in the field. He 
had, however, fought the battle of Brandy wine with 
an army inferiour to the enemy ; and made an at- 
tack upon Germantown which only v/anted success 
to make it add much to his military reputation ; it 
being well planned, and the general discovering 
great activity and courage in collecting troops v/ho 
had been so entirely dispersed a few days before. 

An alteration was contemplated in the military 
arrangements, and the public papers declared that a 
majority of Congress had determined to advance 
gen. Gates to a command which would imply a 
censure upon the commander in chief. Although 
this did not originate with Mr. Adams, he was 
known to be unfriendly to Washington, and after 
this he was not a favourite with certain military gen- 
tlemen who had been his most active partizans. 
Some of these officers had a conference with him 
in Boston, and he declared that he never meant that 
Gates, or any other officer who was not born in 
America, should supercede Washington or be com- 
mander in chief. Perhaps he only meant that there 
should be separate commands, and the generals to 
be independent of each odier, and of the same 
rank, and to look to the Congress for the chief di- 
rection. 

Whether he was attached to the General, or 
thought him the most proper person for the high 
office of President of the United States, is a subject 
of opinion, on which his fellow citizens differed. It 
is certain that president Washington did not speak 
of him with the highest respect. 

It has been said in a European publication, that 
Mr. Samuel Adams made the motion for Indepen- 
dence, and tha' he sacrificed a large fortune in the 
cause of his country. This is not true. But it is 
true that he contributed to the Independence of 
America, as much as any man, by his enterprising 



ADA is 

spirit at an early period of ihe contest, by his patri- 
otic zeal, by his influence on the minds of the peo- 
ple ; yet no individual ought to be styled the Father 
of our Independence. For a nation to be born it 
required all the mighty efforts of those bold, wise and 
noble-minded statesmen, who adorned this era in 
the annals of their country by their presence in 
the first Congress. 

From being secretary of the commonwealth of 
Massachusetts, Mr. Adams was chosen a member of 
the senate of the state after the government was 
formed in the year 1780, and was placed at the head 
of that respectable branch of the legislature. He 
had been one the members of the convention which 
formed the government, was a principal leader in 
the debates, and eminently useful, from his knowl- 
edge and experience, in the committee which made 
the first draught ; as well as in the great body which 
shaped it in its present form ; and styled it the Con- 
stitution of Government for the state of Massac hu- 
setts. The address of the convention to the people 
was composed by him, and another gentleman who 
has since filled several offices of honour and trust in 
the commonwealth. 

Whilst Mr. Adams was president of the senate, 
he was punctual in his attendance upon every part 
of duty, and adhered strictly to all the regulations 
and forms of proceeding ; till finding the infirmities 
of age coming upon him, he was persuaded to re- 
sign the chair, a place which required dispatch as 
well as constant assiduities in business. He was 
succeeded by Mr. Phillips, who afterwards suc- 
ceeded him as lieut. governor of the state. 

During the time of his infiuence in the senate, 
there was an insurrection, which threatened the 
overthrow of the government. Whoever recollects 
the popular phrensy will give due credit to the wise, 
spirited and energetic measures which were then 
urged, and carried into effect. The most direful 
consequences were prevented, the tumult was soon 



14 ADA 

quelled, and the people as soon convinced of their 
delusion. In this dark scene of adversity, when 
even a civil war had commenced, no man was more 
firm and intrepid than Mr. Adams. It was his con- 
stant declaration, that republicks could exist only by 
a due submission to the laws : that the laws ought 
to be put in force against all opposition, and that a 
government could be supported by the exertions of 
a free, virtuous, and enlightened people. 

The year after the insurrection the administration 
was changed ; Mr, Bowdoin was succeeded by gov, 
Hancock, This was contrary to the opinion of Mr. 
Adams. No man could have conducted himself in 
this office better than the former gentleman, yet 
many people in the commonwealth indulged the 
idea, that Mr. H. having the confidence of the peo- 
ple more than the other, might serve the common- 
wealth more eftectuallv at this time. Gen. Lincoln, 
the officer who had quelled the insurrection, was 
jiut into the office of lieut. governor. Perhaps this 
might also chagrin the good old patriot. It was 
evident tliat he disliked this choice, and the oppor- 
tunity was improved to bring about a reconciliation 
between two men whose friendship had been broken, 
and succeeded by personal hatred, but who were 
now to act like friends, and form a political union in 
which the sentiments of the heart might have little 
concern.— Soon after the insurrection, the conven- 
tion met at Pliiladelphia to form a new constitution 
of government for the United States. When the 
constitution was completed, a convention was as- 
sembled in Massachusetts to consider it ; and Mr. 
Adams was also one of the twelve representatives of 
Boston. In this body he was almost a silent voter. 
In former assemblies he had spoken upon every 
tjuestion that became an object of discussion, and 
as he grew older was remarkable for his garrulity ; 
yet here he seldom opened his mouth. He had said 
so much against it in conversation prior to the meet- 
ing of this body, that he well knew if he prais- 



ADA IS 

ed It he would be charged with inconsistency, which 
had been no part of his character through life ; and 
if he spake against it, he was sensible of the odium 
it would bring upon him ; for his constituents were 
a strong phalanx in defence of it. The trade of the 
town had been stagnant. The mechanicks were in 
want of business, and from this they expected gold- 
en dreams of prosperity. 

Our politician voted for the adoption of the con- 
stitution with amendments. He himself proposed 
one amendment which was not adopted ; and which 
he soon withdrew. It excited a strong resentment 
at the time, and would have given still greater of- 
fence, if he had not declared that it was far from his 
intention to excite a jealousy that the people's liber- 
ty was to be infringed. — There are two different 
opinions on this part of his conduct : one that it was 
his design to prejudice the republican party against 
the constitution : the other that he only wished to 
have something originating from himself, and there- 
fore proposed an amendment, which he had not well 
considered, or not at all digested. From this time, 
however, he was viewed as the leader of that party 
which disliked the mixture of aristocracy said to ex- 
ist in that form of government ; and looked with 
pleasure at the things going on in France. It is 
certain that all those who were styled antifederal- 
ists supported his character and influence ; and that 
those who disliked the administration of the govern- 
ment under Washington and Adams, as well as 
those who first disliked the constitution itself, united 
their energies to exalt his reputation in his old age ; 
to blazon his name among the first worthies of Amer- 
ica, and to give him all the merit that could possibly 
be due to his services. 

Mr. Adams was chosen governor of the state of 
Massachusetts in 1794, having been second in au- 
thority and honour five years. He continued in the 
ehair three years, and then resigned. 

The last six years of his life he passed in retire- 



16 ADA 

ment. At no time did party spirit rage with more 
violence ; but he could only mingle his voice with 
the friends who visited him. Some mortifications 
every one must meet with. In public life great 
men are not without their cares : in the evening of 
their days when they seek for rest, every want of 
attention in their old acquaintance is a thorn in their 
pillow. Many of the old friends of gov. Adams who 
had gone hand in hand with him during the revolu- 
tion now forsook him, though he yet received the 
respect, attentions and caresses of those, who thought 
him not more venerable for age, than he was for his 
attachment to republican principles. He was the 
decided friend of the Jeffersonian administration. 
Several letters v/hich passed between him and pre- 
sident John Adams discovered his opinion of the 
politicks of the day, and his general ideas of govern- 
ment. He died in a good old age, and in full belief 
of those religious principles in which he had been 
educated; and which he was free to defend even 
against Thomas Paine himself. 

The letter Paine wrote to him in answer to one, 
which was certainly well meant, discovered that 
man as much a stranger to good manners as to pure 
sentiments, and moral wortji. 

His character may be summed up with saying, 
that he was a respectable politician, though too 
much influenced by local prejudices. He never ap- 
peared to so much advantage in Congress as in Fan- 
ieul Hall. He never liked the habits of the people 
in the southern states. In the latter part of his life 
lie coalesced vv^ith their politicks, but the Puritans 
of New England were the men to set an example to 
the world. He never swerved from these ideas 
which imbued his mind at a tender age. His moral 
sentiments were ever mingled with his politicks, and 
he perhaps thought too highly of the forms of reli- 
gion. He was a poor man, who despised riches, and 
possessed as proud a spirit as those who roll in af- 
fluence or command armies. He had three topicks 



ADA 17 

of conversation upon which he always dwelt — Bri- 
tis/i thraldom — the mantiers^ laws and customs of 
New 'England — the benefit of publick schools to thq^ 
rising generation. By publick schools he meant 
such as there are in every town in Massachusetts, 
which diffuse knowledge equally among all classes 
of people ; for he set his face against academies. — 
In his zeal he often repeated his opinion, and per- 
haps in his conversation exhibited more the cha- 
racter of a true New England man, than any one of 
his contemporaries, on which account he was re- 
vered still more by his old friends who cease not to 
mention this, when they describe his worth, his tal- 
ents, and his exertions in the cause of his country, 

Adams Zabdiel, was minister of the church in 
Lunenburgh and was graduated at Harvard College, 
1759. 

He was born at Quincy. His father was brother 
to the father of the late president of the United 
States, and his mother, whose maiden name was 
Anne Boylstone, was sister to the president's mo- 
ther. Mr. Adams was respectable for his abilities. 
His sermons were sensible and plain, and he deliv- 
ered them with animation. lie also discovered 
acuteness in managing a controversy upon a ques- 
tion that was agitated in 1774. " Whether a nega- 
the power be allowed- to the pastor oiier the proceed- 
ings of the people^ in t lie formation of our churches.'''* 
He took a position which could not be maintained 
by the platform, or any just sentiments of religious 
freedom, though many pastors of churches have 
adopted it, and some reduced it to practice, viz. 
That the pastor has a negati'ue^ in the proceedings of 
the church, in the same manner as the governor of 
Massachusetts negatived acts of the general court.* 
He was provoked to write this pamphlet from an 
attack made upon a sermon he had printed, by an 
anonymous writer, who calls himself a neighbour, 

* The governors under the crown had a complete negative. 
D 



18 " A IJ A 

His ant^lgonist answered Mr. Adams' book ; and 
gained the advantage, though he was by no means- 
^o fair a disputant. He had the voice of the people^ 
and common sense on his side ; yet he seemed to 
prefer the glory of a partizan to that of defending 
the truth. He asserts that a minister is primus in- 
ter pares > or the moderator of a meeting, which 
very term ei^plains his power. And he was fortu- 
nate enough to find a civil m.agistratc to answer 
to this station. The governor of Connecticut has 
no power of negativing, nor had the governor of 
Massachusetts till the charter of William and Mary, 
The old charter had been inhumanly murdered by 
one of the Stuart race, all of whom were enemies to 
civil and religious liberty. If ministers or ruling 
elders, says this anonymous writer, have a negative 
upon the brethren they must be a distinct branch, 
or act in distinct bodies and branches, and then the 
minister or eldership cannot have the moderatorship, 
according to any acting bodies whatever, or accord- 
ing to the reason and nature of things. The king 
IS not president, nor moderator of the house of 
lords ; nor the governor of the province president 
of the council in legislative proceedings, where he 
is a distinct branch. Several ministers in the coun- 
ty of Worcester adhered to the principles advanced 
in Mr. Adams' book, and lost their parishes.* 
Upon several publick occasions, Mr. Adams was 

* I'rom this militant state of the chvirches arose contentions 
?.nd contests at our courts of justice. One of the clergy who was 
dismissed without calling a rour.cil, prosecuted for his salary. 

I'he (iucsiion was argued. John .Adams defended the minister 
in the supreme court. The question of negative power was not 
introduced. The people had gone to another extreme in opposi- 
tion to the platform : more so than the pastor they accused — 

They meant to reduce it to a mere piece ot parchment, accerd- 
ing to the insurger.t spirit that was then raging. The ravens of 
discord vcre let loose rgainst all form and order. The state of 
publick ailairs prevented a final decision. Since the revolution 
the quesiion has hecn revived and urged in a more popular man- 
ner; and several ministers lost their salaries when the opinion of 
the court was urianimous in their favour. 



A L D 19 

elected to preach discourses, and he always did 
iiimself honour, and gratified the hearers. He 
preached thcDudlean lecture, 1794, upon Presbyte- 
rian ordination : which was not printed, but in the 
opinion of the president of the University, it Aras 
one of the very best that had been delivered. He 
died March 1, 1801, in the 62d year of his age, and 
37th of his ministry. 

His printed discourses are, the election sermon, 
1783. Several at the ordination of young men to 
the ministry, in some of which subjects of contro- 
versy are handled with independence of spirit, acri- 
mony of speech and generous sentiments. He was 
always highly esteemed by the more liberal part of 
the clergy. 

Addington Isaac, an eminent magistrate of 
Massachusetts. He was one of those worthies \\ho 
opposed the administration of sir Edmund Andross ; 
and was appointed secretary of the province, by 
those who adhered to the old charter. He also re- 
ceived the same appointment from the crown when 
the charter of William and Mary was brought over. 
He was chosen for many years one of the council, 
and was very active as a justice of the peace. He 
died 1714, leaving a character very respectable for 
integrity, wisdom and industry. 

Judge Dudley, who was then attorney general, 
and who married one of his daughters, took the 
seals till Mr. Woodward the next secretary was ap- 
pointed. 

Alden John, one of the worthies who first came 
over to Plymouth in the year 1620. He was then a 
young man. He settled in Duxbury, on a farm 
which is now the best in the town, and has been al- 
ways in possession of one of his descendants. All 
of the name are descended from him. And many 
of his posterity have been useful and distinguished 
members of society. This gentleman lived to the 
age of 88. For many years he was one of the as- 
^ktams in the old colony. Two of his grand chil. 



20 ALL 

dren were living in 177i. Col. Alden who was 
killed at Cherry valley, was his great grandson. His 
father was capt. Samuel Alden, who was alive when 
the revolution commenced. — He saw a new empire 
peopled with three millions where his grandfather 
saw nothing but a savage wilderness. Aldens Cent, 
Sermon, 

Allen Thomas, minister of the church in 
Charlestown, was born in the city of Norwich, in 
1608 ; was graduated at Caius College, Cambridge 
University ; and ordained minister of St. Edmunds, 
in the same city. In 1636, when the clergy were 
required to read the book of sports^ he refused, and 
lost his parish by order from bishop Wren. He 
sailed from England, and arrived at Boston in 1638. 
He was invited to settle at Charlestown, and con- 
tinued their pastor till the year 1651. He then re- 
turned to England and spent the remainder of his 
days at Norwich, where the people highly respect- 
ed him. Dr. Mather speaks of him as a pious and 
laborious minister, and a raan greatly beloved; which 
he says is the original of the name Allen, or Alwine^ 
as it is in the Saxon. 

While he was in this country he composed a book 
entitled an " invitation to thirsty sinners to come 
unto their saviour," which was printed twice, and 
prefaced by Mr. Higginson. He also composed 
another, called " The scripture chronology" which 
was printed in England, 1659. 

Dr. Calamy mentions tvv'o other publications — 
The " way of the Spirit in bringing souls to Christ," 
and a number of sermons upon " the necessity of 
faith." He is in the list of ejected ministers, 1062, 
but he continued to preach till his death, Sept. 
1673, etat. 65. Magnalia, page 215. Calamy'' s 
Account of ejected ministers, vol. I J. 

Allen John, first minister of the gospel in Ded- 
ham, Massachusetts, A. D. 1737. 

He is styled a courteous man by the author of 
Wonder working providenccsy who says likewise that 



ALL M 

he was full of christian love, while he made such a 
bold stand against the errors of the times. He di- 
ed 1671, etat. 75, having beenatDedham 24 years. 

Dr. Mather calls him a diligent student and good 
scholar. It is evident that he had good abilities for 
a polemical divine from his Defence of the ni?ie pro- 
position which were so many points of church disci- 
pline. In this work he was assisted by Mr. Shep- 
herd of Ca7nbridge.^' 

In the synod of 1662, Mr. Allen made a very 
conspicuous figure, and he wrote in defence of it 
against the celebrated pj^esident Chauncy. Besides 
these controversial pieces he printed a few discour- 
ses which are not now to be met with. His friends 
also, published the two last discourses he ever 
preached, one from Canticles, viii. 5, and the oth- 
er from John, xiv. 22. From their account we must 
think his epitaph just. 

JOHANNES ALLEN, 
Vir sincerus, amans pacis ; patiensq ; laboris 
Perspicuus, simplex, doctrinx purus amator. 

Allen James, one of the silenced ministers who 
left England after the act of Uniformity, 1662. He 
came to Boston, and was invited to preach at the 
first church, as an assistant to Mr. Davenport. Hav- 
ing continued with them six years he was ordained 
their teacher, Dec. 9^ 1668. He lived in the style 
of a gentleman, built a stone house which is now oc- 
cupied by his great grandson, the slicriff of Suffolk, 
and which is probably the oldest house in the town. 
It is said " that he had a farm of forty acres in Bos- 
ton." He had certainly a very handsome estate, and 
■was kind and hospitable. He was very strongly 
attached to the or^ of the churches^ as defended by 

* In the history of Cambridge (Hist. Coll. 7th vol.) we find 
among the works of Mr. Shepherd, a discourse to clear ufi the 
old way of Christ, in the churches of New-England. Mr. Cotton 
speaks with respect of these divints, Shephardus cum AUinio 
fratre (fratrum dulce par) uti eximia pictate, et conditione non 
mediocri, atque eliam mysteriorvmi pietatis predicatione, Sec. 
Preface to A'orton's sermon. 



22 ALL 

Dr. Increase Mather, his particular fiiencl, and op- 
posed those attempts to introduce innovations \vhich 
were made in more than one instance during his 
ministry. He died Sept. 22, 1710, in tiie 78th year 
of his age.* 

His posterity have been respectable in Massachu- 
setts. His elclest son James received a liberal edu- 
cation, and Jeremiah his second son, was treasurer 
of the province. They both filled several offices, 
with ability and reputation. Calamy''s Account of 
ejected ministers. Private mformatio?i, 

Allen James, the grandson of the Rev. Mr. 
Allen, was elected a member of the house of re- 
presentatives for Boston, 1739. At this time a 
pointed opposition was made to the administration 
of gov. Belcher, and the town of Boston took the 
lead in it so as to change their representation.! 

Mr. Allen continued in opposition to the govern- 
ment while Shirley was in the chair, and was once 
expelled the house for his freedom of speech. The 
town imn;iediately rcchose him. The house refused 
him his seat. The altercation lasted till the May 
succeeding, when another house of representatives 
was appointed, among whom Mr. Allen's name is 
enrolled, and to which no objection could be made. 
He continued a member of l5|p general court till he 
died, 1755. Independent Advertiser, 1749. 

Allen John, one of the early graduates of Har- 
vard College, having received the honours of that 

* The printed works of Mr. Allen are, " Man's reflection, a 
naeans to further his recovery of his apostacy from God." 12mo. 

2d The substance of a number of sermons upon tiie health of 

the soul. Small quarto. The electioirsermon,' 1679. 

t Tlic repreyentutives from Boston, *7 3 8, were Elislia Cooke, 
esq. Oxenluidge Thacher, esq. Timothy Prout and Thomas 
Gushing, jun. In 1739, Mr. Thacher and Mr. Prout were left 
out, bocause they were ilelcher's friends and adhered to his 
measures — Mr. Allen and Mr. Kilby, who were his most violent 
opposers, men of zeal in whatever they undertook, were elected 
in their places. Mr. Bromfield who was likewise on the popular 
side was a tlnrd in the new choice — Mr. Cooke had dicfl previousj 
:q the election. 



ALL . sa 

infant seminary in 1643. He was settled in the 
ministry at Great Yarmouth, in Old England, as a 
colleague with Mr.. John Brinsley ; and was silenc- 
ed by the act of Uniformity, 1662. He afterwards 
took a house at Goidstone and often preached. He 
preferred this place because it was out of the juris- 
diction of the bishop of Norwich, who was an ene- 
my to Independents. He died, A. D. 1675, after 
passing the 50th year of his age. Calamy''s contin- 
uatioUy page 67. 

Allen James, first minister of the church in 
Brookline was a native of Roxbury. He was grad- 
uated at Harvard College, 1710; was ordained 1718, 
and died 1747, in the 56th year of his age, and 29th 
of his ministry. " He was a pious and judicious di- 
vine." He was one of the ministers who encourasred 
.the revival of religion in 1743, but afterwards, like 
many other zealous brethren, expressed his disap- 
pointment concerning its general effect upon the 
ciuirches, and on the morals of individuals. He lived 
and died as a christian, and his publications do equal 
honour to his hetid and heart.* Fierce'' s Cent, sermon. 
Allen Ethan, was a man born for troublesome 
times. In a tranquil state of society, and in rural 
walks he might only have been distinguished for 
his great bodily strength, or rude, boisterous beha- 
viour. But opportunities were not wanting to dis- 
play the peculiar genius of the man and his local 
situation made him a warrior before he was called to 
fight the battles of his country. The lands granted 
by the province of New Hampshire to certain set- 
tlers, were claimed by the state of New York. If 
the people who held the lands had made this ac- 
knowledgment, they must have purchased what 

• He printed seven sermons. — 1 . Thanksgiving sermon, Nov. 
3 722. — 2. Upon the government of the world by a wise provi- 
dence, 1727.— 3. The doctrine of merit ejtploded, 1727 — 
4. Upon the great eartlujuake, 1727 — 5. A sermon to youngs 
men, 1731. — f: A funeral jerrron upon the deaih oiMr. Aspin- 
wall,^1723 — 7. The election serir.onj 1744. 



24 ALL 

they considered as their own. They disputed the 
title, and defended themselves by arms. Allen was 
their leader, and he was declared an outlaw. As 
soon as hostilities commenced between Great Bri- 
tain and her colonies, these hardy soldiers of the wil- 
derness, engaged fiercely in the cause of America, 
and marched directly to Ticonderoga and Crown 
Point, which places were garrisoned by British 
troops. These garrisons were surprised and taken 
May 10th, the former by Allen, and the other by 
col. Seth Warner, one of the boldest of these moun- 
taneers, who from this time took the name of the 
Green momitain boys. 

After this, col, Allen passed the lake with the 
troops that gen. Montgomery commanded, and was 
sent to the Canadians to give them information and 
gain their influence, ' in which he met with some 
success. This was during the summer months. 
He went a second time in November. But attempt- 
ing to take Montreal, he with his whole party of 
Canadians, were taken prisoners. He says, that 
Brown first proposed this, but did not assist him ac- 
cording to his promise. It was thought an impru- 
dent action, and coL Allen, whose fame had been 
trumpeted through the provinces, was now called a 
*' high flying genius" fearless as a man, but without 
prudence for a superior officer. His courage did 
not forsake him when he was taken, but he acted 
and spake like one conscious of doing well, and de- 
serving applause. He was put in irons and sent 
over the Atlantick, was in prison in England, and 
aboard a vessel, in Halifax and New York, and in 
1771 exchanged for col. Archibald Campbell, who 
had been taken with a battalion of Highlanders in 
Boston bay in the summer of 1776. He published 
a book the next year, which is styled '^ his narra- 
tive" which makes him a hero in suffering as well 
as action. 

We hear but little of him during the last year of 
the v/ar, the historian not finding so many instances 



ALL 25 

of His prowess as are related in the narrative. — He 
mi^ht perhaps expect a separate command, which 
some officers had who were inferior to him in the 
date of their commisions, or had not been so early 
in the field He appeared after his exchange to have 
been more of a politician than a warrior ; and en- 
tered fully into all the debates about making the 
green mountains a separate state ; and amused his 
mind at the same time with theological enquiries. 
With these, the publick were favoured. He print- 
ed a book called the Oracles of Reason in which he 
thought he had said enough to discard all revela- 
tion. But he was not fortunate enough to convince 
others that religion was a fable ; or that he was able 
to manage a controversy in which men of much 
greater ingenuity had failed. The book was equal- 
ly bad in argument and style ; it was wretchedly 
printed, very little read, and is now wholly forgot- 
ten. 

Allen Ebenezer, also a green mountain boy, 
was one of the first soldiers of the revolution. He 
was in the party that went against Ticonderoga. 
With forty men he went upon the hill l>!etiance^ 
and carried the fortress without loss of a man He 
also distinguished himself in the battle of Benning- 
ton ; taking advantage of a breastwork ot rocks, he 
contended with the front of the enemy, till he caus- 
ed a temporary retreat He was among those who 
exerted themselves in making Vermont a separate 
state, and lived to see not only the wilderness sub- 
dued, where he first ploughed the ground, but the 
places filled with inhabitants. — The account of his 
death is mentioned in the newspapers of the year 

Allerton Johk, one of the number who arriv- 
ed at Plymouth, 1620 — he died the first winter. 

Allerton Isaac, one of the first settlers, who 
was employed as their agent in F.ngland upon sev- 
eral occasions. In 1620 he went over to treat with 
the adventurers and to obtain money and articles 

£ 



26 AM E 

which were wanted in the plantation. The next 
year he went again upon a similar errand, and Nov. 
6, finished " the bargain with the company at Lon- 
don, delivered his bonds and received their deeds." 
In 1628 he returned to New England, and was sent 
in the fall as the agent of those planters, that he 
might get their Kennebeck patent enlarged, and 
give some assistance to their friends at Ley den. He 
returned the next year without accomplishing their 
object, the enlargement and confirmation of the 
Plymouth patent. Morton was his clerk in this bu- 
siness, who came over with him, and proved a 
scourge to the plantation, and also Mr. Rodger s an 
independent minister, who proved insane, and whom 
he carried back the year after according to the wish- 
es of his brethren. They also commissioned him to 
finish the business of the patent. He returned to 
New England in the spring of 1630, and brought 
over Ashley and others who had taken a patent for 
Penobscot to trade with the natives in those eastern 
parts. 

We find no further account of his being employ- 
ed upon publick business. It is most likely he 
spent the remainder of his days with the people at 
Plymouth, but the year of his death is not recorded. 

Ames Dr. Nathaniel, of Dedham, Massachu- 
setts, was eminent as a physician and mathemati- 
cian. He published an almanack forty years suc- 
cessively, which was so highly reputed, that no 
other almanacks were saleable in this and the neigh- 
bouring states. When he died, in the year 1765, 
he had made the calculations for the ensuing year. 
The almanack was published as his, and so attach- 
ed were all classes of people to the name, that the 
demand was great for all that were printed. This 
worthy man descended in a direct line from the 
Rev. William Ames, son of the famous Francquer 
professor, who wrote the Medulla Theolop(je.* 

* Mr. William Ames was likewise ejected from Wrentham, 
»nd the next parish, Froslendon : Having been in the year 164S 



AM E !i,7i 

Ames Fisher. Esq. the son of the astronomer »" 
one of the most brilliant men this country ever pro- 
ducecl, was born at Dedham, and graduated at Har- 
vard College, 1774, when he was only 16 years of 
age. His compositions at this early period were 
excellent and original. They discovered not only 
a rich and glowing fancy, but correct taste and 
judgment beyond what could be expected from a 
youth. During the revolutionary war he was en- 
gaged in no particular business, but dwelt in the 
family mansion at Dedham, where he must have 
adorned and enriched his mind with those stores of 
knowledge which enabled him to give such delight 
to his friends, and render such eminent services to 
the community. 

He was afterwards a student at law, and from ex- 
ercising his profession a few years, he was introduc- 
ed into a more extensive field of usefulness. In 
1788 the convention met in Boston for the purpose 
of deliberating on the constitution recommended by 
the grand federal convention. He was sent as a 
member to this body, from his native town, and 
made a distinguished figure among the most elo- 
quent speakers. A passage from one speech he 

settled as co-pastor with his uncle Phillips, to the church of Christ 
in Wrentham ; and likewise preaching one part of" the Lord's day 
at Frostendon for many years. And at that time, I suppose Mr. 
Thomas King, after Mr. Phillips' great decay, supplied at 
Wrentham. Mr. Ames died in the year 1689, in the 66th year 
of his age. He was the son of the famous Dr. William Ames, 
(who after having been twelve years pastor at Franequer, was dis- 
missed from thence, in order to his being professor at Rotter- 
dam, and died not in 1639, as has been represented by some, but 
in 1533 :) and when a child went over vvitli his mother to New 
England, where he had his education at Harvard College, and 
became a graduate in 1645, and returned to Old England and 
came to Wrentham in 1646. He was a very holy man, of the 
Congregational persuasion, and in all respects an excellent per- 
son. He hath a sermon in print entitled the " saints security 
against seducing spirits ; or, the anointing from the Holy One the 
best teaching ;" on 1. John, ii. 20 ; preached at Paul'sjbefore the 
lord mayor, aldermen, &c. Nov. 5, 1651. Calamy's Continuation, 
i^cval. IL/2fi,797y 798. 



28 A M E 

made early in the session, was quoted with high ap- 
probation by a southern orator in their convention, 
as being the most forcible and animating description 
of the spirit of democracy. The eyes of the people 
were turned to him when they elected members of 
Congress ; and he represented the Suffolk District 
eight years. Amidst that constellation of worthies 
he shone a star of the first magnitude. The latter 
part of the time, his health was peculiarly delicate, 
and his feebJe frame would olten sink . under the 
bold efforts mdde by a mind of superior native vi- 
gour and wonderfully active. But although he was 
able to pay less attention to publick concerns than 
he Was prompted by the ardent desire of his soul, 
he delivered some of the best speeches ever heard 
in an x^merican assembly From this publick 
sphere he went to the shades of retirement, where 
he could enjoy his book, and his friends ; attend to 
rural affairs or, as his health permitted, to the busi- 
ness of his profession. 

He was chosen into the council in the adminis- 
tration of gov. Sumner, and when the legislature 
met after the death of Washmgton, he was elected 
by them to pronounce the publick eulogy. The 
degree of Doctor of Laws he received from New 
Jersey, and he was unanimously chosen president of 
Harrard College, which honour he declined in a 
polite letter to the corporation. His last days on 
earth were painful from his bodily complaints, but 
the vigour of his mind never failed ; many admira- 
ble productions of a political nature came from his 
pen, equally instructive and entertaining, full of vir- 
tuous sentiments and true patriotick zeal. During 
every period of his life, his splendid abilities were 
guarded by his integrity and religion, and " adorn- 
ed with the choicest flowers of eloquence :" and 
even when the last breath lingered on his trembling 
lips the recollection of his past life armed him w ith 
resignation ; and the pure principles of his religious 
belief turned the s/iadoivs^of deatfi into the light of 
the morning. 



APP i9 

His funeral was attended in Boston by all classes 
©f people, and an eulogy was pronounced by the 
hon. Mr. Dexter. His body was then conveyed to 
Dedham to be deposited in the family tomb. The 
publick earnestly desired that a subscription might 
be brought forward for his works, which are to be 
collected in a volume ; and with them will be given 
a more complete biography than has yet appeared. 

A PPL ETON Nathaniel, D. D. minister ol the 
church in Cambridge was the son of the hon. John 
Appleton, esq. of Ipswich. He was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1712; ordained, 1717; and died 
Feb. 9, 1784. His manner of preaching was plain, 
practical and impressive. It is said, that in the 
younger part of life he excelled as a publ'ck speak- 
er. Many of the present generation remember him 
as a man venerable for his piety, his prudence and 
his age. " New Jbngland can furnish few instances 
of more useful talents, and of more exemplary pie- 
ty, united with a ministry equally long and success- 
fill." 

There was a cheerfulness mingled with the grav- 
ity of his deportment ; such a di^position to make 
every one happy around him, as rendered his soci- 
ety acceptable to the rising generation ; and he re- 
ceived peculiar tokens of respect from the inge- 
nuous youth of the university. He often preached 
when ministers were ordained ; and his discourses 
were calculated to promote harmony, love and peace. 
There were times when he was obliged to exert all 
his fortitude, prudence and candour to conduct so, 
as not to give offence. 

While jvjr Whitefield was in the zenith of his 
popularity, the president, and other instructors of 
the college bore their testimony against him on ac- 
count of the uncharitable and slanderous reports he 
made of the state of that seminary. He addressed si 
letter in reply, which was answered by the professor 
of divinity. Many pastors of the churches in Massa- 
chusetts and Connecticut, also testiiied against the 



3© A P P 

errors and disorders which then prevailed. Dr. Ap- 
pleton was censured for his moderation, which was 
then a very unfashionable virtue, and he was re- 
quested by many zealous members of his own 
church, and by some of his brethren in the ministry, 
to admit that wonderful preacher into his pulpit. 
He continued steadfast, however, in supporting the 
interest and honour of the college. Mr. Whitefield 
was sensible of his error, when riper years had tem- 
pered the fervour of his youthful spirit, and with 
christian candour he publickly acknowledged his 
fault. When Harvard Hall was burnt in 1764, he 
solicited benefactions in England and Scotland, and 
his kindness met with a grateful return. Every at- 
tention was paid him by the president and fellows 
of the university, on his last visit to America, and 
Dr. Appleton invited him to preach in his church. 
The scene was interesting : Mr. Whitefield was 
uncommonly affectionate in speaking of the aged di- 
vine in his prayer, and in his address to the people 
of his charge. His text was 1. Cor. iii. 11. Several 
ministers who had always attended Mr. Whitefield's 
preaching observed, that he never displayed more 
eloquence, or delivered a more correct discourse. 

Dr. Appleton's prudence was exercised in a tri- 
al of a different nature some years preceding the re- 
volutionary war. He was ps true a Whig in his 
political, as he was a Calvinist in his religious prin- 
ciples. But several of his hearers were on the oth- 
er side of the question, and had rendered them- 
selves very unpopular in their publick stations. 
They had been among his particular friends, and 
while they blamed him for his opposition to the go- 
vernment, others who w^ere with him in his poli- 
ticks made severe remarks upon his complaisance 
to Tories. None, however, could ever accuse him 
of " speaking unadvisedly with his lips." 

Dr. Appleton was fellow of the corporation of 
Harvard College from the year 1719 to 1779. He 



AND 31 

then resigned on account of his age. He sat at the 
board with five presidents. He delivered funeral 
discourses upon tTiree, Leverett, Wadsvi^orth and 
Holyoke. Another discourse he also printed when 
Mr. Flint died, who had been more than 60 years a 
fellow and tutor of the college.* 

Andross Edmund sir, governor of New-York, 
New- England and Virginia, came to New- York, 
anno, 1674, with a commission as governor, hav- 
ing only the title of major Andross, being sent 
by the duke of York, after he had obtained a 
grant of the land from the king of England. His 
administration began with lenient measures, the 
effect rather of his policy than clemency, or he 
soon discovered a temper, cruel to individuals 
and unfriendly to the state. One instance of this 
was, his quarrelling with Carteret who then exer- 
cised jurisdiction over New Jersey. By an exer- 
tion of power he threw him into prison for v/hich 
it is said he was deprived of the government ; but 
did not lose the favor of the duke, to whom he was 
a compleat sycophant, making himself subservient 
to all his arbitrary designs and superstitious de- 
vices. 

He was appointed govei'nor of New England in 
1686, and arrived in Boston on the 29th day of De- 
cember. The first commission which was granted 
by James after he came to the throne was to Dudley^ 
as president of a council of twenty eight ; of this 
council Randolph was secretary. But this was of a 

* Dr. Holmes has given a list of Er. Appleton's publications. 
The wisdom of God in the redemption of man, 1728, 12mo. 
Discourses on Romans viii. 14, 12mo, 1743. Eight funeral ser- 
mons. Six ordination sermons. Two fast sermons. 'I'wa 
thanksgiving sermons. A sermon at tlie artillery election, 
1735 ; general election, 1742 ; convention of ministers, 1743 ; 
on the difference between legal and evangelical righteousness, 
1749; at the Boston lecture, 1763; against propliane swear- 
ing, 1765. He also preached the Dudleian lecture sermon, 
1758; upon the validity of Presbyterian ordinRtion. 



32 AND 

short duration ; and more extensive powers were 
given to Sir Kdmund,as he was then styled and eve- 
ry vestige of the old charter was obliterated. His 
prejudices were strong against the people of Massa- 
chusetts, and the puritanism of New England, these 
prejudices he discovered when governor of New 
York and they were confimed by Randolph, who is 
handed down to us as one of the mo^t despicable 
wretches that ever held an office in our government. 
In the year i638, this governor of Massachusetts, 
and of all New England, received another commis- 
sion, by which New York was added to his juris- 
diction. This was said to be done in order to unite 
the colonies and make them more formidable to the 
French ; but the true reason of it was to abridge 
their liberties and to annihilate everv idea of their 
own importance, and in a particular manner to de- 
prive them of those privileges which were founded 
upon former claims, the freedom of the press was 
restrained, and no book could be printed without 
the license* of Mr. secretary Randolph. This was 
an early instance of his ill will to the people and vvas 
followed by a restraint upon marriages He exact- 
ed bonds from all who entered into the matrimoni- 
al state, to be forfeited if there should be afterwards 
found any lawful impediment. I'he congregation- 
al teachers were considered as laymen, and the fa- 
thers of '^ew Kngland considered marriage as a 
mere civil contract ; the magistrates also might le- 
gaily perform the ceremonies. This was not con- 
sonant to the ideas of the church of Fmgland or of 
Rome, an address was therefore sent to the bishop 
of London, begging that no marriage should be 
deemed lawful unless the ceremony was performed 

• It has been observed, that a complaint of this kind was rather 
inconsistent, as it inipHed tliat the press was perfectly free before. 
This was not the ca«e, it hud been under restraint durinpj former 
administrations ; the only change was in the licniser — Randolph 
prevented every publication which did not suit his own humour 
and prejudice. 



AND $$ 

by a minister of the church of England * The 
Congregational societies were to be taxed for the 
maintenance of the Episcopal clergy. The people 
were threatened with having their meeting- houses 
taken from them, or that their mode of worship 
should not be tolerated. This we have from Hutch- 
inson, who was indeed attached to the forms of the 
New England churches, though, like Dudley, he 
often sacrificed his religious prejudices at the shrine 
of worldly honour. 

The people swelled with rage at having their civil 
and religious liberties trampled upon by an arbitra- 
ry governor. The loss of their freeholds was now 
added to their distresses ; and they might well con. 
sider whether their lives were to be long secure. 
They were roused to exertion, and sent Dr. Increase 
Mather who was then president of Harvard College, 
as their agent to England. He was ordered to re- 
present things as they actually were, and to make 
this rational request — tliiit ike right which they had 
to t/ieir freeholds might be conjirmed ; and that no 
laws be ?nade, or monies raised, ivithout an assembly. 

While their civil affairs were thus conducted, sir 
Edmund was called upon to display his military 
talents. To stop the incursions of ihe Indians, who 
had burnt several of the eastern settlements, he 
marched a thousand men into their country in the 
depth of winter ; by which he shewed more prow- 
ess than judgment. The governor was much blam- 
ed ; for he might have been informed by the hunt- 
ers, that the aboriginals always retired into the woods 

• In one of Randolph's letters he writes, " I press for able and 
" sober ministers, and we will contribute largely to their mainte- 
" nance ; but one thing wili mainly help, when no marriages shall 
" hereafter be allowed lawful but such as are made by the minis- 
" ters of the church of England." 

In another letter to gov. Hinckley, quoted by Hutchinson, he 
says, " perhaps it will be as reasonable to move, that your colony 
"should be rated to pay our minister of the church of England, 
"who now preaches in Boston, and you hear him not, a^ to 
'' make the Quakers pay in your colony. 

F 



34 AND 

to spend the winter, where the most alert scouting 
parties would hardly find them. He returned to 
Boston with a part of his army, having put the re- 
mainder into winter quarters in two forts which he 
built, viz. one at Sheepscot and the other at Pejep- 
scot falls. These were the only fruits of his cam- 
paign. 

The revolution which placed William and Mary 
upon the throne proved most fortunate for New En- 
gland The friends of this court were the friends of 
the colony ; and were also disposed to reverse the 
proceedings under the late king, especially where 
an attack had been made upon the freedom of the 
subject. As soon as it was rumoured, that the 
]M-ince of Orange had prevailed in England, the in- 
habitants of Boston assembled ; sounding the trum- 
pet from the north, every part of the town was in 
commotion. To prevent any extravagance among 
the insurgents, the old magistrates put themselves 
at their head, and endeavoured to keep things calm 
and regular till advices could be received from the 
old country. Sir Edmund retired with his friends, 
and several members of the council, to the fort in 
Boston. A summons was sent to him upon the 
18di of April, 1689, signed by the former governor 
Bradstreet, Mr. Stoughton, and others, to whom he 
surrendered. The violence of the people, who had 
come in from the country, could scarcely be restrain- 
ed* They insisted upon his being chained as a 
traitor. It became necessary, in order to gratify 
this vindictive spirit, and in fact for his own person- 
al safety, to keep him under confinement in the fort. 
When the news came, that William and Mary were 
proclaimed king and queen, it was received v.ith joy 
by the inhabitants of New England. Soon after, 
sir Edmund demanded his liberty ; but the repre- 
sentatives resolved that he, with several others, could 
not be admitted to bail, and they were kept in pri- 
son until by orders from the king they were sent to 
England. The king gave assurances that he should 



AND 35 

be removed, and promised Mr. agent Mather that he 
should be made to answer for his mal-conduct. Com- 
plaints against him were laid before the privy coun- 
cil ; and at the same time he preferred a charge against 
the colony for rebellion, imprisoning the king's gov- 
ernor, &:c. The next day they were all discharged ; 
and upon a report made to his majesty in council, 
the matter was dismissed by both parties. 

Andross was afterwards made governor of Vir- 
ginia, and arrived there in Feb 1692. He brought 
over the college charter. Whether he had become 
more mild by age, more wise by experience, or 
found it to be more for his interest, there was a 
change in his measures, and his administration is 
spoken well of by the historians of the province. He 
gave encouragement to agriculture, manufactures, 
and the arts. Fulling mills were erected by act 
of assembly in his time, the cultivation of cotton 
he particularly favoured. He loved method and dis- 
patch in all kind of business. During his adminis- 
tration the state house was destroyed by fire, togeth- 
er with many of the original patents, records, and 
deeds of land, &c. He was very assiduous in sort- 
ing such as were saved, and caused them to be regis- 
tered in a better manner than they had been before. 
He offered to rebuild the state house several times ; 
and it was thought, that much of the expense which 
attended the rebuilding of it would have been saved 
if he had continued in the government. But he 
was removed in 1698, and was succeeded by Fran* 
cis Nicholson, esq. From that time there was an 
end of improvement in manufactures, towns and 
trade. Sir Edmund Andross died in London, Feb. 
24, 1713—14.* Smith's Hist. N. Tark. J^e'il. 
Cook's letter. Bcoerly's Hist, of Virginia. 

* Beverly relates an anecdote of sir Edmund whkh deserves 
to be repeated, as sliewing a trait in liis character, though we 
do not vouch for its trutli. — Being upon a journeVi he stopped at 
». poor man's house in Stafford county and asked for a drink of 
water. An ancient woman came out to him, with a brisk lively 
lad of about 12 yciirs of age. The lad vv-as of a ruddy and fair 
complexion, end excited the governor's curiosity so much, that he 



36 AS H 

^SHURST Henry sir, Massachusetts agent at the 
court of Great Britain, was the son of Henry 
Ashurst, esq. who was a member of parliament, 
and friend to New England. It is said that he had 
a '* great hand in settling the corporation for pro- 
pagating the gospel among the Indians in New En- 
gland, and the parts adjacent." The father and 
son were both fiivourable to the dissenters ; yet the 
latter was made a baronet by Charles the 2d, his 
lady being the daughter of lord Paget, and himself 
a favourite, which may seem strange, as he was a 
tnan more remarkable for his uprightness, his at- 
tachment to religion, and friendly propensities, than 
brilliant parts. He had, however, great influence 
at court, and yet very often relieved dissenting mi- 
nisters when they were fined, or sent to prison. Mr. 
Hutchinson says, that the family of Ashurst had al- 
ways been favourable to these plantations ; and, 
therefore, sir Henry was chosen agent. The first ad- 
dresses that were sent from Massachusetts, after the 
restoration, went through his hands, as the medium of 
communication with the king. When Dr. Increase 
Mather appeared at the British court to obtain re- 
dress of grievances, and favour for Massachusetts 
colony, he engaged sir H. Ashurst to make appli- 
cation, in the character of their agent. He continued 
in this relation to the colony for several years, and 
his services were acknowledged with gratitude. At 
length, a different influence prevailed among the 
members of our general court ; and as they 

proceeded to ask some questions respecting him. To his great 
surprise he was assured that he \vas the son of this woman, at 76 
years Oi age. His excellency smiling at Ib.is improbable story, 
enquired whiit sort of a man had been his father. The good wo- 
man made no reply, but ran and led her husband to tlie door, who 
was above an hundred years old. He confirmed what the woman 
had said. Notwithstanding his grc^at age, he was strong in his 
limbs and voice, but had lost his sight. The woman had no 
complaint and retained a vigour uncommon at her years. Sir 
Ldmund was pleased at this extraordinary account; made him- 
self known to her, and offered to take care of the lad ; but the old 
folks would not partwiUi him, However, he made them a present 
iif Iwcntv pouiida. 



could not make him subservient to their party zeal, 
he was dismissed from the agency, without receiv- 
ing even the pecuniary rex^ard to which he was 
justly entitled. This excited his honest resentment, 
and showed how much republicks want gratitude. 
He died in 1710. 

His brother, ^ir William -^^Az/r^;, possessed supe- 
rior talents. The party in opposition to Dudley 
chose him agent, but he refused the office, *' being 
well acquainted with the slights put upon his bro- 
ther." He recommended Jeremiah Dummer,\\\\o 
was afterwards chosen. 

AucHMUTY Robert, an eminent barrister dur- 
ing the administration ol Belcher and Shirley. He 
was one of the directors of the LancJ Bank^'dndwdS 
sent to r ngland, 1741, being joined with Kilby in 
the agency. His particular business was to settle 
the Rhode Island dispute concerning the line. 
While he was in England, he laid the plan of an 
expedition to Cape Breton. He wrote a letter to 
the ministry, dated, Cecil street, 1744. 

The latter years of his life he was judge advocate 
of the court of admiralty. 

He left two sons, and one daughter, whom Mr. 
Pratt married, who was afterwards chief justice of 
New York. The sons were eminent in their pro- 
fession. Samuel the eldest was graduated ai Har- 
vard College, 1742, was minister of the Episcopal 
church in the city of New York. He received a 
degree of doctor in divinity from the university of 
Oxford. 

AucHMUTY Robert succeeded his father in his 
line of business ; had not a college education, but 
was a most agreeable speaker at the bar; his tongue 
was mellifluous, and his manner very interesting 
to the jury. In legal knowledge he was doubtless 
inferior to several of his contemporaries, but in all 
important causes, where addresses were to be made 
to the jury, he was applied to, and was generally 
successful. He was appointed judge of the admx- 



38 BAG 

ralty, 1768. But, upon one occasion, he appeared af- 
ter this, as a pleader at the bar. He was council 
with Mr. Adams, for capt. Thomas Preston, and 
perhaps no plea was ever more admired, though the 
tide of prejudice was much against his cause. It 
has been since handed round in mss. but at this day, 
ia the reading, it falls far short of the delivery. 

Judge Auchmuty was a zealous royalist, and left 
America, 1776, and died in England. 

Avert John, of New Sarum, came to New 
JEngland in 1035. The people of Marblehead de- 
sired him to be their minister, but he declined ; 
because the church was not gathered, and wen to 
iVVw/'wry, with a view of fixing his habitation in that 
town. In the course of the year he had pressing 
solicitations trom the inhabitants of Marblehead, 
to sit down vvith them, and Mr. Cotton, with other 
eminent men, advising him, he consented to go 
there. He embarked on board a pinnace, ugust 
11, 1655. The company consisted of twenty 
three, among them Mr. Antony I'hacher and 
family, and Mr William Eliot, who also came 
from New Sarum in the same ship. On the 
14th day of the month, they met with a vio- 
lent gale which overset the pinnace. Mr. Avery 
•was washed by a wave upon the island called 
Thacher''s fi^oe, horn this melancholy circumstance, 
several of Mr. Thacher's family being shipwrecked 
upon it. Mr. Thacher also named the rock upon 
which they stood, Avery's fall, because he fell 
from it, and perished in the waters. It bears the 
name to the present day. 

Backus Isaac, pastor of the first Baptist church 
in Middleborough, is eminent among the divines, 
and historians of New England. 

He had not the advantage of a university educa- 
tion, but his reading was extensive, his memory te- 
nacious, his mind strong. He was a zealous 
preacher, an eager disputant, upright in his con- 
duct, though his speech and manners were rough. 



B AC 39 

Mr. Backus was born at Norwich, Connecticut, 
1724; was ordained over a Congregational church in 
Middleborough, 1748 ; became a convert to the 
sentiments of the Antipedobaptists, 1756. He was 
active in forming a church of that persuasion, and 
the same year was installed as their pastor, which re- 
lation was continued until his death in the year 1806. 

The town of Middleborough chose him one of 
their delegates in the convention which adopted 
the federal constitution, and he made a speech in 
favour of it. This speech he read, though he al- 
ways preached extempore. He never missed an 
opportunity to censure the custom of carrying notes 
into the pulpit, and the latter part of his life ex- 
pressed his chagrin, that so many of his own de- 
nomination should imitate the common practice. 

He was, however, a very industrious man in 
writing upon many subjects both of theology, and 
the antiquities of the country. 

The history of the Baptists is in three volumes^ 
The two first, he afterwards abridged in one smaller 
octavo volume. 

This work contains many facts, much important 
information, and would be read with more interest, 
had it been written with less party spirit. This may 
give a zest to logical essays ; it is always expected 
in theological controversies, but it tarnishes the 
pure and serene lustre of the liistorick page.* 

• His other works would (if bound together) make several vo- 
lumes. They consist ol pamphlets which are controversial 
pieces, essays, sermons, and many of them phillipicks against the 
oppressive acts of the legislature of Ma^isachnsetts, and also 
against the tyranny of the Congregational churches. 

Upon this subject he also wrote many fugitive pieces in the 
l^ewspupers. 

Tlie Historical Socifty were benefited by his labours. He 
wrote a bis'.ory of Middleborough which is published in a third 
A'olume of their collections. He also contributed other commu- 
nications, being very exact as to dates, and accurate in correcting 
topographical errors. 

There was no funeral sermon printed after his death, but a 
short sketch of his character is given in the Baptist missionary- 
magazine, Feb. 1807; 



40 B A I 

Bailey John, one of the ejected ministeib, 166£, 
went to Limerick in Ireland, and then found it ne- 
cessary to remove to New England. He was assist- 
ant minister of the first church in Boston from the 
year 1693 to 1697, the year of his death. He was 
54 years old when he died The members of the 
church were desirous he should settle as colleap-ue 
pastor with Mr. Allen, but he declined. Mr. Neal 
mentions his beinsc minister at Watertown. as well 
as his brother Thomas, who left Ireland at the same 
time, and who was, afterwards, minister of the 
church in that place. They both took up their re- 
sidence in W^atertown, but Mr, J. Bailey only 
preached occasionally there, as in other churches, 
until he became assistant to Mr. Allen after the 
death of Mr Oxenbridge. The author of the 
Magnalia celebrates his piety in several pages. He 
was amona: his srreatest favourites. His own works 
also praise him. His printed address to the people at 
Limerick, which he wrote in 16.S4, is full of good 
advice ; it is sensible and pathetick. He says he 
was not allowed to preach a farewell sermon to 
them, and therefore sends a lo7ig letter. He also 
wrote a book upon the glory qf God ; and the way in 
which his people may glorify him. 

He was buried in the common burial place, near 
the old alms-house, and around the spot lie many 
jof his descendants. Of his posterity now living are 
two grand children ; three great grand children ; 
and several of the fifth generation. These are in 
the female line, and bear the name of Willis or Bel- 
knap. 

Bailey Thomas, minister of Watertown, also 
one of the ejected ministers. He preached chiefly 
to the peoi^le in that town ; but was a man very 
acceptable to people in other places. A traveller, 
who was in New England in their time, says he vis- 
ited the brothers, J. and T. Bailey, in Boston. He 
calls them ministers of Boston ; which has led some 
to doubt the correctness of his relation in other 
parts of his book.. 



B A L 41 

Amon,^ the curlons mss. in the cabinet of the 
Historical Society, are a number of Latin odes or 
poems in different kinds of verse, by Thomas Bailey, 
all dated, 1668, at Lindsay. 

Balch William, minister of the second church 
in Bradford, was born at Beverly, 1704. He possess- 
ed strong powers of mind. Fewof ourNewhngland 
divines have surpassed him in clearness of percep- 
tion, comprehension of understanding or soundness 
of judgment. The simplicity of his manners was 
peculiar, and he had a softness and benevolence in 
his disposition, which he discovered on occasions 
where most men would have been irritated. He 
was graduated at Harvard College, 1724, ordained, 
1728, and died, 1792. 

The first years of his ministry were spent in peace 
and harmony with his people and the neighbouring 
churches. At length a spirit of disorganization pre- 
vailed in many places, especially in the towns near 
the river Merrimack. Nine members of Mr. 
Balch's church declared themselves dissatisfied with 
the preaching of their minister, and made a formal 
complaint to the brethren. The church thought 
the complaint unreasonable ; and refused to act 
upon it. Hence the aggrieved party applied to a 
neighbouring church to admonish their pastor and 
brethren, according to the direction of the platform, 
by the third way of com?nunion.* The church voted 
to call a council of the neighbouring churches and 
the result was signed by the moderator, the vene- 
rable John Barnard, minister of the first church in 
Andoiier^ blaming the conduct of those who com- 
plained, and approving the doings of the church. 
Mr. Balch published the whole proceedings in a 
quarto pamphlet, containing the letters that passed 
between him and the first church in Gloucester, and 
the transactions of both churches, till the dispute 
was settled. This was printed 1744. Two years af- 

*Ghap. 15, 

G 



42 B A L 

ter the parochial difference, Messrs Wia^glesworth 
of Ipswich, and Chipman of Beverly, mode a seri- 
ous attack upon their brother B.ilch for propagating 
Arminian tenets, and wrote an able defence of the 
doctrines of Calvin, which were generally the sen- 
timents of the New England planters It seems the 
former controversy began in 1741, by a declaration 
of the agiijrieved brethren, that "their pastor propa- 
gated doctrines, not agreeing with the confession of 
Jaith of these Congregational churches ;'''' and also 
that the church "■ nci>iected the proper means of 
convicting said pastor of his errors." The gentle- 
man who wrote against him in 1746, had been as- 
sisting those who had comphiined ; and they were 
not satisfied with the result of the council. Their 
work, however, had no other effect than to draw 
from Mr B. a most able reply in which he mani- 
fested a temper that, with all his meekness, could 
feel rebuke. There is much keen satire mingled 
with sensible rem<«rk and solid argument. 

The separatists in Bradford, after this, built a 
meeting house for themselves, and the disaffected 
members of other churches. Mr. B. lived to a 
good old age. His own flock esteemed and loved 
him, and when he was advanced in years settled a 
colleague. He lived retired and was fond of hus- 
bandry ; and the fruit of his orchard was said to be 
the best in the county of Essex. He was fond of 
the company of young men of talents, and had fine 
colloquial powers, especially in discussing theologi- 
cal subjects. Being very desirous to read every 
thing new upon ethicks, and metaphysicks, he made 
many enquiries which discovered freedom of thought^ 
and proved the energy of his mind did not fail him 
in those years when *' our strength is labour and 
sorrow."* 

* His publications are — a Discourse ufion self righteousness in 
which he dec lures what ure Jahr ccihjiacvccs iVoin tht parable of 
the pharixee a7id fuiblican^ 174 2 — Election sermon, 1749 — His 
account of tlie procecdiniis of the council .tiid his reply to Messrs. 
W. and C. make two pamphlets of more than fifty pages. 



BAR 43 

Barnapd John, minister of the first church in 
Marblehead, was graduated at Harvard College, 
1700, and ordained, 1716. He was appointed chap- 
lain of tlie army sent in 1707 to reduce Port Koyal, 
now Annapolis, and left a particular account of the 
expedition in mss. Afterwards he went to England 
with capt. Wentworth,the gentleman, who, in 1717, 
was appointed lieut gov. of New Hampshire. He 
was in habits of intimacy, during his rtsidence in 
London, with n'a a eminent ministers ; and a curi- 
ous spectatoi of those busy scenes, \\hich were open- 
ed by the trial of i)r. Sucheverel, in the latter part 
of queen Anne's reign. When he arrived in Boston 
he expected to have been fixed in a church then 
building ii. North street; but Dr. Mather's influ- 
ence in favour of another young man prevented this 
connexion. This he always felt as a cruel disap- 
pointment. He was a member of the old North 
Church, and the new society ]>roceeded from it ; 
he looked up to Dr Increase Mather as his father ; 
he was therefore wounded by his nearest friends. 

Another kind of prejudice prevented his settling 
at Roxbury, and which shows how unpopular the 
character of Dudley was in the neighbourhood where 
he dwelt. He paid some particular attentions to 
Mr. Barnard, which is the reason given why the 
people would not have him for their minister 'f he 
inhabitants of Marblehead not having any political 
bias, nor any personal prejudice, gave him the pre- 
ference of several candidates who were pi caching 
upon probation^ according to the New England 
phrase, which perhaps is peculiar to our churches. 
He was a burning and shining light for many years, 
and his praise was in all the churches. His own 
people reverenced him as their father and friend, 
and he seemed like a high priest among the clergy 
of the land. He w^alked erect in his 88th year, re- 
taining the vigour of his imagination and tone of 
voice, as one sensible of the importance of his cha- 
racter. He spake with energy upon every subject 



44 BAR 

as though he would impress the rising generation 
that grey hairs were tlie mark of wisdom, not of 
weakness. Such instances are rare, where minis- 
ters increase their influence in old age ; but those 
who now recollect Mr. B. often mention the digni- 
ty of his appearance, and the great respect shown 
him by all classes of people. His bodily constitution 
was so strong that, except once, he never was con- 
fined by sickness, till the year of his death, 1770, 
Ctat. 8y. He left no children, and his estate was 
given for pious and charitable uses. 

In a c rtain mss. with the college catalogue, against 
his name is Harvardini CoUegii benef. munificus. 

In his diary, certain improvements in the police 
of the town are said to have arisen from his advice 
and exertions. He first gave a spring to that com- 
mercial enterprise which changed the town of Mar- 
blehead from a fishing place, to the second rank of 
any town in Massachusetts. He even instructed 
them in ship building, and military tacticks. He 
certainly had a great mechanical genius, and was as 
industrious, as he was enterprising. In the year 
1745 he was chosen chaplain of the troops that 
went to Louisbourg, but he declined on account of 
his age. 

He was unfortunate in thinking himself a poet, 
because, from this mistaken idea, he published a 
version of the psalms, which was never adopted in 
any other church than his own. The vanity of this 
good man appeared in his fondness for his own pro- 
ductions on a variety of subjects. He was willing 
to publish whatever he wrote, and it seems from his 
memoirs that he was partial to himself in some other 
respects. 

His theological publications do him much hon- 
our, and have been very useful in comforting and 
edifying pious minds. They consist of several oc- 
tavo volumes bound, and many pamphlets and ser- 
2Uons.* 

* The imperfection of the creature, a number of sermons oii 



BAR 45 

Barnard Thomas, minister of the first church 
in Salem, was the son of the rev. John Barnard of 
Andover,and respected as one of the most profound, 
liberal, and excellent men of his profession. He 
was graduated at Harvard College, 1732, ordained 
at first over a church in Newbury, Jan. 31, 1738, 
but was disiLirbed by fanaticks who went about to 
expose unconverted ministers, and make divisions 
in societies. A letter addressed to Joseph Adams, 
one of the most zealous of these eccentrick preach- 
ers, by Mr. Barnard, gives a just state of the disor- 
ders in the country at that time. Mr. Barnard was 
the object of peculiar animosity, as he was a man of 
superior talents and acquirements ; and they had a 
strong prejudice against hnman learning, being ve- 
ry ignorant themselves, and owing their importance 
to the ignorance of the people. He was dismissed 
from the church at Newbury at his own desire, and 
many were grieved, not only of his neighbours and 
friends, but of those who thought losing such a man 
from the ministry was an injury to the cause of 
pure, rational, and evangelical piety. 

After leaving Newbury, he studied law, and was 
a practitioner at the bar. He was representative to 
the general court from Newbury, but his mind was 
more bent on theological studies than upon affairs 
of civil life. His abilities were conspicuous in all 
kinds of business, but his friends were fully per- 
suaded he would be more happy and more useful 
as a preacher of the gospel. Hence he accepted an 
invitation from the first church in Salem to be their 
pastor, upon the death of the rev. John Sparhawk. 
He was installed, Sept. 18, 1755. It was much to 
the honour of Mr. Barnard that the gentleman who 

Psalm, cxix, 9, 8vo. 1747. — Mercy to sinners by the gos- 
pel, a vol. 8vo. on Ads xvi, 3(i, 1750, — The election sermon, 
1734 — Convention sermon. — Dudlean lecture upon the evidences 
of Christianity, 1756. 

His various printed discourses, without those above menlioncd, 
wake four octavo volumes in the college library. 



BAR 



first addressed the church in his favour was one, wh® 
adorned the supreme bench as chief" justice, and 
would have been an ornament to any profession ; 
his affection for the place of his nativity made him 
naturally care for their state. More literary charac- 
ters were members of this church than of any in the 
province ; and their eyes were turned towards a 
gentleman whose talents were known, as he would 
have so good an opportunity to exert them. This 
very respectable society had reason to be satisfied 
with the choice they made. As long as he lived, 
he was esteemed and beloved by the wisest and best 
part of the community His manner of preaching 
was grave, slow and distinct. He had not sufficient 
animation in his delivery, but his sermons were ra- 
tional and judicious, calculated for hearers of 
thoughtful minds, without that unction, p^.puiar 
preachers have, and which seems necessary to give 
a charm to public discourses. It was observed al- 
so by men of good sense, that Mr. Burn-ird's style 
of preaching was ngt the most perspicuous. His 
favourite author was bishop Butler, who^e writings 
are more remarkable for masterly reasoning, than 
fine turned sentences. In the deistical controversy 
Mr, B. was superior to most divines, and he often 
made it the subject of his publick discourses 

In his sentiments he was considered as a follower 
of Arminius rather than Calvin ; he was a semi° 
Arian of Dr. Clarke's school. 

He suffered much from paralytick complaints the 
last years of his valuable life. His memory left him, 
and he could only read his notes by close attention 
to the writing. In 1772, Mr. Dunbar, a young 
preacher of extraordinary genius, was settled a col- 
league ; but Mr. Barnard continued to preach till 
within a few weeks of his death. He died, August 
15, 1776, aged 60 years. The late Dr. A. Lliot 
preached the funeral sermon, at the desire of the 
church. They were long acquainted, and sincere- 
ly loved each other, and the discourse spoke the 



BAR 47 

language of the heart, while it gave just conceptions 
of the character of his friend* 

Barnard Kdward, minister of Haverhill, was 
the younger son of Mr. B. of Andover, and a most 
accomplibhed preacher. He wa^ graduated at Har- 
vard College^ 1736, and ordained at Haverhill, 1743, 
His popular talents were not eminent, but his dis- 
courses were correct and excellent composition, and 
highly relished by scholars and men of taste. He 
was a fine classical scholar, and excelled in poetry 
as well as prose. It was much regretted that he 
did not publish more, as what he did publish was so 
acceptable. His sermon upon the good man would 
do honour to any divine. He preached the election 
sermon, 1766; the convention sermon, 1773, which 
was printed, and an ordination sermon when Mr, 
Cary was settled at Newbury. 

The expectations of his friends were excited, when 
proposals were issued to publish a volume of ser- 
mons hi 1774, the year of his death ; but the revo- 
lution iry war commenced before they were com- 
mitted to the press, and during those years there 
was no encouragem.ent for anything, but what bore 
an aspect upon the times. 

Of his poetry nothing is to be found except a po- 
em upon the death of Mr Abiel Abbots his fritnd, at 
college, who took his degree, 1737. 

BARTLtTT Jo SI AH. govcmor of Ncw Hamp» 
shire, v.as born at Amesbury, in the county of fcis- 
sex, Massachusetts, 2 1st \ov. 1721). His ances» 
tors, came from the south of England, and fixed at 
Newbury. The rudiments of his education he re- 
ceived at Amesbury, at the town school ; and hav- 
ing a thirst for knowledge he applied himself to 
books in various languages, in which he was assist- 
ed by a neighbourmg clergyman, the rev, Mr« 

* His publications are, a sermon before tl e society for promote 
jng industry, 1757 ; a tuner, 1 sermon on rev. P Clark, Danvers, 
1768 ; sermon at ti.e Dodltiar^ lettnre, 1768; alsO: election ser- 
mon, artillery election, and three ordination sermon^. 



48 BAR 

Webster, of Salisbury, an excellent scholar as well 
as judicious divine. Mr. Bartlett had the benefit of 
his library and conversation, while he studied phy- 
sick with a gentleman, who was a practitioner in his 
native town. At the age of 21, he began the prac- 
tice of physick in Kingston, and very soon became 
very eminent in the line of his profession. In 1764, 
a field was open for the useful display of his skill. 
The cynanclie maligna became ver} prevalent in ma- 
ny towns of New Hampshire, and was a fatal disease 
among children. The method of treating it was as 
a highly phlogistick complaint ; but he was led 
from his own reason and observations to manage it 
differently. He made use of the Penrcian bark^ as 
an antidote and preventative, and his practice was 
successful. This afterwards become general among 
physicians. 

In 1765, Dr. Bartlett was chosen a member of 
the legislature, and from this time w'as annually 
elected till the revolution. He soon after w^as made 
justice of the peace. In 1770, he was appointed 
lieut. col of the 7th regiment of militia. These 
commissions he was deprived of in 1774, on ac- 
count of the active part he took in the controversy 
with Great Britain. This was a lime when " the 
clashing of parties excited strong passions, which 
freqt^ently gained the mastery of reason." The 
governor and council of ^ew Hampshire saw 
fit to dissolve the house of assembly, supposing that 
a new one might become more flexible, or be more 
subservient to their wishes. In the mean while, 
col. Bartlett, with several others planned a kind of 
authority which was called a committee of safety. 
They met at Exeter, and in the course of events, 
were obliged to take upon themselves the whole ex- 
ecutive government of the state. When a provin- 
cial congress had again organised the government, 
col. Bartlett received a new appointment as justice 
of the peace, and col. of the 7th regiment. 
, . The first members who were chosen to represent 



BAR 49 

the state in congress were col. Bartlett and Mr. 
Pickering of Portsmouth. This was in 1774.— 
I'hey were both excused from going to Philadel- 
phia ; and Mr. Folsom, and major Sullivan were 
elected. Col. Bartlett was prevented from accept- 
ing this honoviralple trust by the unhappy condition 
of his domestic affairs; his house having been burnt, 
his family were obliged to seek a shelter without 
any thing but the clothes they had upon them. He 
was elected member of the second congress which 
assembled at Philadelphia the next year, and also 
attended his duty in the same station, 1 776. He 
was the first that signed the declaration of indepen- 
dence after the president. 

In 1777, col. Bartlett and gen. Pcabody were ap- 
pointed agents to provide medical aid and other nec- 
essaries for the New Hampshire troops, who went 
with gen. Stark, and for this purpose repaired to 
Bennington, a spot distinguished by a battle very 
important in its consequences. In April, 1778, he 
again went as a delegate to congress with John 
Wentworth, esq. of Dover. — He returned in No- 
vember, and would no longer appear as a candidate 
for that office. 

When the state of New Hampshire was organized, 
under a popular government, col. Bartlett was ap- 
pointed judge of the common pleas ; in June. 1782, 
a judge of the supreme court ; in 1788, chief ju's- 
tice. 

In June, 1790, he was elected president of the 
state, which office he held till the Constitution abro- 
gated the office of president, and substituted the ti- 
tle of the chief magistrate, governor. He was then 
chosen the first governor of New Hampshire since 
the revolution. He resigned the chair in I79i, on 
account of his infirm state of health, and then retir- 
ed from publick business. 

He had been the chief agent in forming the medi- 
cal society of New Hampshire, which was incorporat- 
(pd m 179 1 , of which he was president, till his public 

H 



50 B A S 

labours ceased, and when he resigned, he received a 
ivarm acknowledgment of his services and patronage, 
in a letter of thanks which is upon the records o{W\e 
society. He was always a patron of learning and a 
friend to learned men. Without the advantages of a, 
college education he was an example to stimulate 
those \^'ho have been blessed with every advantage in 
early life, but cannot exhibit such improvement of 
their talents, or such exertions in the cause of lit- 
erature. It was his opinion that repub icks cannot 
exist without knowledge and virtue in the people. 

He received an honorary degree of doctor of med- 
icine from Dartmouth University, and was an hono- 
rary member of the Agricultural Society. 

Gov. Bartlett did not live long after he resigned 
his publick employments. His health had been de- 
clininjj a number of years. In 1789 he lost his 
Wife, a very amiable lady, with whom he had lived 
happily ; it affected his spirits and increased the 
lassitude of his frame ; paralytick affections follow- 
ed, and by a paroxysm of this complaint he died sud- 
denly, May, 1795. 

Bass Kdward, bishop of the Episcopal church 
in Massachusetts, was born at Dorchester, Nov. 23, 
1726, and was graduated, 1744; in 1752, he was 
invited to settle at the episcopal church in Newbu- 
ry, and was ordained by that great man, Dr. Sher- 
lock, then bishop of London. During the revolu- 
tionary war, when most of the episcopal churches 
were left destitute, he continued to preach, and by 
his prudence, mildness, peaceable and inoffensive 
behaviour, he gained the esteem and affection of 
people who were very different in their politicks. 
In July, 1789, he received a diploma of Doctor of 
Divinity from the university of Philadelphia. In 
1796 he was elected unanimously, by the convcn- 
lion of the protestant episcopal churches in Massa- 
chusetts, to the office of bishop of that church. He 
was consecrated in Christ church, 7th Viay, 1797, 
by the bishops of the episcopal churches in Penn- 
sylvania, New York and Maryland. He was also 



B E A 51 

elected bishop of the churches of the same denomi- 
yatioa in Rhode Island, and ^evv Hampshire 

" Bishop Bass was a sound divine, a critical 
scholar, an accomplished gentleman, an exemplary 
christian. On the 1 0th of September, 1805, after 
an illness of two days, he died as he had lived, full 
of piety, resignation and humility." Historical 
Collections^ vol. IX. 

Beach John, an eminent writer in defence of 
the doctrine and government of the church of Eng- 
land, was graduated at Yale College, 172!, and 
officiated some years as a congreg-ational minister at 
Newtown, Connecticut. He declared his conform- 
ity to the church of tngland in 1732, and many of 
his people conformed with him. The same year 
he went to England for orders, and was appointed 
their minister. He continued to preach to this 
people, and the church at Reading, till tlie revolu- 
tionary war. Mr. Beach was well respected among 
the several denominations for his learning and pie- 
ty. When Dr. Johnson died, who had been presi- 
dent of the college in New '/ork, it was expected 
he would deliver the funeral sermon. He was un- 
able, on account of his ill state of health, to attend 
the funeral, but afterwards preached and printed a 
discourse, which is said to be a just tribute of re- 
spect to his friend, the most zealous supporter of 
the episcopal claims ever known in New England. 
Mr. Beach was a very sensible and evangelical 
preacher. Among other sermons he printed, is one 
upon " the inquiry of the young tnan in the gospel.'^ 
His controversial pieces are — " A vindication of the 
professors of the church of h^ngland against the 
abusive and fallacious argumentations of Mr. Noah 
Hobart, 1750. To this Mr. B. replied in a secojid 
address to the members of the episcopal separation, 
h.c. Mr. Beach then published a continuation of 
the calm and dispassionate vindication of the profes- 
sors of the church of Eiigland, Sec. 1756. 

The dissenters were ready to acknowledge Mr, 



Beach to be the most able of the episcopal ivriters^ 
who ens^aged in the controversy with Mr. Hobart,- 
but against such a disputant^ their church could not 
gain the ground they expected : his addresses 
were read with interest and high estimation by men 
of all denominations. In England Mr. Hobart was 
called the "very ablest controversial writer New P'.n- 
gland had to boast of. Chandler''s life of president 
Johnson. Mr. HolUs''s letters. 

Belcher Andriw, one of his majesty's council 
for the province of Massachusetts, and fatlier of 
gov. Belcher, was himself one of the famous men in 
those times. He is called " an ornament and bless- 
ing to his country." He was the most opulent 
merchant in the town of Boston ; a man of integri- 
ty and honour ; a friend to religion and learning. 
He died, October 31, 1728, aged 71, 

Belcher Jonathan, governor of Massachu- 
setts and New Jersey, was born in Boston, 1681. 
His father was desirous he should have the best 
education the country afforded, and then to travel 
over Europe. It was a great pleasure to have a son 
of so promising a genius, upon whom the hopes of 
the family depended. The youth w^as an excellent 
scholar, and was graduated at Harvard College, 
1699. The class which he was a member consist- 
ed of twelve ; and it is worthy of notice that the 
four first were as distinguished characters, as New- 
England has produced.* Three held the highest of- 
fices of their country ; and the fourth w'as a divine 
who would have been an honour to any age or nation, 

Mr. Belcher did not incline to enter upon pro- 
fessional studies, but went into the mercantile line 
of business. To increase his commercial corres- 
pondence, as tvell as to expand his mind, he spent 
several years in Great Britain, and upon the conti- 
nent, and gained testimonies of esteem from some 
of the greatest and best characters. He was intro- 

• Jeremiah Bummerj J. Belcher, Edmund Qnincy. and John 
Buckley, 



yuced to the princess Sophia, and became acquaint- 
ed with her son the elector of Hanover, who was af- 
terwards kin^ of England. When he returned to 
Boston he enlarged his business as a merchant, and 
became a candidate for publick honours. From be- 
ing a member of the legislature for his native town, 
he was chosen one of his majesty's council, where 
he was very respectable for his knowledge of man- 
kind, his zeal and activity in serving the interest of 
the province. In the year 1728, he was chosen 
agent at the court of Great Britain. The circum- 
stances of this election, as related by Mr. Hutchin- 
son, are not so favourable to him, but ought to be 
mentioned in a biographical sketch, where we look 
not for eulogy, but the jnst traits of every man's 
character. Mr. Belcher had been closely attached 
to gov. Shute, and to his measures, the same that 
Burnei pursued ; but he suddenly went over to the 
other party, and " was thought the most proper per- 
son to join with Mr. Wilks, who had been very 
friendly to Mr. Cooke in his agency, ?nd upon sever- 
al occasions had interested himself in favour o{ Nenu 
England, and had tticrefore been the first object of 
their choice." They jomtly represented the state 
of the province, shewing " the people were averse 
to a compliance with the instructions given to gov, 
Burnet, which he had communicated to the house." 
The result of their petition is well known. 

Two years after he was appointed agent for the 
people, he had a commission from the crown to be 
their governor, and he possessed some admirable 
qualities for the station. His fine person, engaging 
p.ddress, urbanity of manners, and splendid mode of 
living, made him the most popular man in Massa- 
chusetts. The part he had lately acted fixed an 
opinion, that he would not perplex the legislature' 
with those instructions which had produced such 
contests with his predecessors When the news of 
his appointment reached New England, all classes 
of people rejoiced, especially those who had been 



Ki. BEL 

in opposition to Shute and Burnet : but as sDon as 
they learned that similar instructions were given, 
and that no change of measures would follow from 
having such a man in the chair, most of these popu- 
lar leaders became his active enemies. He arrived 
at Boston, August, 1730. rsew Hampshire was 
included in his commission. At the first meeting 
of the general court, he proposed to have his salary 
fixed acccording to the instructions he had receiv- 
ed. This did not occasion any altercation at first; 
but when he refused his assent to a bill passed for 
his support, he found them unmoved by his persua- 
sions, and determined to support the views of for- 
mer legislatures. He endeavoured to persuade the 
bouse of representatives to send word to tlieir 
agents in England, that he might be permitted to 
receive the grants, vhich being obtained, it put 
an end to the controversy. 

There were three events, however in the rdmin- 
istration of gov. Belcher which excited an opposi- 
tion to him, and in the end caused his removal from 
the government. In 1733, upon application from 
the court for a new emission of paper bills, when a 
very large nominal amount was in circulation, he 
refused his consent ; and urged that the old emis- 
sions should be first redeemed. This gave offence 
to the party whose views were to be answered by 
the new emission. 

It seems that merchants^ notes\\2id been issued by 
a confederacy of merchants, w ho had formed them- 
selves into a company, and these notes were to be 
redeemed at a certain rate of silver per ounce. The 
excess of the public bills made silver rise ; and in 
consequence of it, the notes were hoarded up. 

Another thing, which occasioned great uneasi- 
ness to the governor was, the dispute between Mas- 
sachusetts and New- Hampshire, r-elative to their 
respective boundaries. This came under conside- 
ration of commissioners appointed by the crown. 
7'he conduct of the governor towards New-Hamp- 



BEL 55 

shire was not pleasing to the leading characters of 
that province ; and they solicited a government of 
their own, distinct from Massachusetts. 

A third event, which happened, while Mr. Bel- 
cher was in the chair, was the bringing forward a 
Land Bank, or scheme of Manufactory. This was 
not an act of the government ; but a large majority 
of the court, and some eminent lawyers of Boston, 
favoured it, and many were subscribers to it. 
The governor's opposition to it, and his ex- 
ertions to suppress it, which were successful, 
brought upon him the ill will of a great part of the 
people. Some of the politicians of those days took 
methods to injure him, which would astonish those, 
who are not much conversant with human artifice 
and deception . The Land Bank was such an abomina«» 
ble kind of speculation, that honest men in Lngland 
as well as America, spoke of it with disgust. The 
enemies of the governor represented him to be the 
greatest friend to this scheme, which they knew he 
abhorred ; but there was no bearing up against the 
poison of the slander After he had fallen a victim 
to it, the truth was clearly manifested. 

H:-^ received another conmiission, as governor 
of New Jersey, and he rendered such useful servic- 
es to that state, that they now speak of him viith 
admiration and love, aud his name will be had in 
everlasting remembrance. There he passed the 
evening of his life, and the scene around him was 
gilded with calm and pure lustre. Peaceable days 
succeeded a troublesome season, and he had an op- 
portunity to do immense service in promoting the 
^ause of religion and learning. 

He was the friend and patron of the college at 
Princetown. Under his fostering care it grew and 
flourished, and became a rich and extensive blessing 
to the community. 

He lived to the age ot 76, and died Aug. 31, 1757. 
No governor ever died more sincerely lamented. 
A funeral sermon was preached upon the occasion 



Sa BEL 

by president Burr, who in a few days followed his 
friend to the silent tomb. The discourse was pub- 
lished without the corrections of the author, but is 
a suitable testimony of respect to a magistrate, 
whose energies and virtues gave him celebrity a- 
mong the best characters. 

Gov. B. never lost his attachment to his native 
soil, or the place of his education. He left a request 
to have a monument erected in the burial ground 
at Cambridge, with a particular order for defraying 
the expence. By some neglect it was never finish- 
ed. It is true of certain gentlemen, that they inher- 
it tlie fortune without the spirit and industry of 
their ancestors. And his eldest son did not follow 
his steps. 

In writing an account of gov. B. the religious 
part of his character ought not to be omitted. He 
was truly pious, though he might be inclining to 
enthusiasm. The wits of Massachusetts made 
sport of this, and suggested that he appeared to 
greater advantage in Whitefield's journal than in 
oar political annals. He did not want, however, the 
sagacity ot a statesman, and was a man of uncom- 
mon industry ; he was as strict in his morals, as 
pious in his walk and conversation. It is a no- 
ble kind of enthusiasm which leads a man to prq- 
mote every literary and religious institution, and 
to do all the good in his power. 

That gov B. loved his country, all were ready to 
allow. That he had New England prejudices, es- 
pecially in favour of the churches, is readily grant- 
ed ; and it is as evident that, under his administra- 
tion, the province enjoyed as much peace and pros- 
perity, as in the same number of years during that 
century. 

The strength of intellect which marked the cha- 
racter and proceedings of Burnet ; that extensive 
knowledge of law and government, and readiness to 
dispute with a host of representatives, were not so 
liberally granted to his successor. Mr. Belcher 



BEL 57 

had only an American education, but his talents 
were above mediocrity, and he exercised them in a 
manner which secured reputation, esteem and re- 
spect. He felt the lashes of satire from his oppo- 
nents, who were witty and severe in their remarks ; 
but he had the support of his integrity ; he possess- 
ed a noble, generous disposition ; and might make 
a demand upon the gratitude of his country for the 
sacrifice of a large property to serve its best inter- 
est. 

Gov. Belcher left two sons, who were educated 
at Harvard College, and made some figure in life. 
Andrew, the eldest, was graduated, 1724. He 
held several publick offices, and was one of his ma- 
jesty 's council. He possessed a handsome proper- 
ty, without much patriotick zeal, or literary taste. 
He died before the revolutionary war.* Hutch. 
Hist, vol. 11. E'uening Post, 1740. 

Jonathan Belcher, chief justice of Nova Sco- 
tia, was also the son of gov» Belcher ; was educated 
at Harvard College, and received the honours of 
of that seminary, 1728. He had also a degree of 
master of arts from the university of Cambridge, 
and from Dublin. He applied himself to the study 
of law, and went to Chebucto among the first set- 
tlers. The spot received the name of Halifax in 
honour of one of his majesty's principal secretaries 
of state, fvir. Belcher was one of their magistrates, 
and rose to be chief justice of the province, and for 
some years was lieut governor. He was a man of 
excellent habits, prudent, upright, of great political 

• His seat at Milton was consumed, 1776, in the night, by an 
accidcnl. His vvidow with the old lady, gov. Belcher's widow, 
who rrsided wiih her, hardly escapt-d the flames. They were 
carried into the barn, put into the family coach, and forgotten 
till all was over. The barn was near the house but was preserv- 
ed, there being little or no wind stirring. The writer of this ar- 
ticle recollects taking tea with the ladies in this barn, which was 
fitted up for a temporary reception. They conversed with cheer- 
fulness upon the fiublick changes, and the changes in their own 
circumstances. 



58 BEL 

integrity. His prejudices were much m favour of 
New Enj^land, which, in a measure, lessened that 
respect which the subjects of his British majesty 
were, otherwise, disposed to pay him during the 
revolutionary war. 

His name and character, however, are held in no 
small reputation by the people of the present Lcne- 
ration. 

Belknap Jeremy, D. D. holds a distinguished 
place among the literary men ot this country. His 
publications are as much read, and as likely to at- 
tract further notice, as any books of the kind. They 
have certainly excited a grateful esteem for the au- 
thor. 

He was born in Boston, June 4, 1744, and had 
the rudiments of his education under the care of 
the celebrated Lovel, who has been styled the 
Busby of New England. 

He earh^ discovered the marks of genius, and en- 
tered Harvard College in 1758. His mind was 
there cultivated with care ; he made considerable 
progress in clas.sical literature, and was master of a 
great variety of knowledge, before he took his first 
degree. At the commencement, A. D. 1762, he 
received the honours of the college. From this 
time, till he became a preacher of the gospel, he ap- 
plied himself closely to his studies, and discovered 
such talents for composition, so much taste and 
sentiment, that several of the best scholars among 
the clergy predicted his future excellence. Some 
part of this time he eujployed in instructing youth ; 
and amidst other pursuits, he wrote several fugitive 
pieces, which were not known to be his, but were 
read with pleasure, as effusions of a fertile fancy, or 
the labours of a student, who had more than com- 
mon parts and learning. 

Whilst Mr. Belknap indulged himself in philo- 
logical inquiries, and studied various branches of 
science, he had very serious impressions of divine 
truth ; and the more he turned his thoughts to the» 



BEL 59 

ology, the more he was captivated with the beauties 
of religion. He no sooner became a preacher than 
his praise was in the churches. His sermons were 
excellent ; and his grave manner, just emphasis, 
and distinct articulation, were more striking to 
well-informed hearers, than those graces of elocu- 
tion, which render some preachers popular, or 
which make the fanatical multitude admire. He 
was ordained at Dover, New- Hampshire, when he 
was a young man. There he passed several years 
of his valuable life, with the esteem and affection of 
his flock ; in habits of intimacy with ministers and 
other gentlemen of the neighbouring places, all of 
whom regretted his departure from the state. He 
received marks of attention and respect from the 
first characters of the community, who persuaded 
and encouraged him to com.pile a history, which 
does much honour to our country, and which has 
given the author a name and distinction among the 
first literary characters of the age. 

The only publications which appear with the 
•name of Dr. Belknap, while he was a minister in 
New Hampshire, beside the first volume of his His- 
tory, are — a sermon upon military duty, dedicated 
to sir John VVentworth, then governor of the pro- 
vince ; a sermon preached before an association of 
ministers, which has since been reprinted by the 
society for propagating the gospel, &.c. and the 
election sermon, in the year 1785. 

He wrote other pamphlets and several political 
speculations in the New Hampshire Gazette, upon 
the controversy between Great Britain and the Col- 
onies. He also wrote in the Boston newspapers, 
against the African slavery. An ingenious young 
man in this town, at the desire of a West India mer- 
chant, had written in favour of the African trade, 
using all the arguments which can be gathered for 
the lawfulness of slavery, from the scriptures and 
the practice of nations. He took the signature of 
John Marshanii and seemed to court the contro- 



60 BEL 

versy, as one able to maintain his ground and con- 
fute his opponents. These essays being published 
in the newspapers, were answered through the same 
channel, by several able and ingenious hands. 
Among the best pieces were those which proceed- 
ed from the pen of Dr. Belknap. When the Co- 
lumbian Magazine was published in Philadelphia, 
he was solicited to become a writer ; and in that 
work may be seen the first sketches of the Ameri- 
can Biography. 

Dr. Belknap removed to Boston, A. D. 1787. 
The church in Federal-street, v.hich had been es- 
tablished upon the Presbyterian model, had agreed 
to form themselves upon Congregational principles, 
and they invited him to be their pastor. Nothing 
could have been more agreeable to the ministers 
and people of the other churches, and to all who re- 
garded the interests of the university at Cambridge, 
with which he became officially connected ; being 
fully confident that he would be a great instrument 
in promoting the cause of religion and learning. 
As an overseer of the college, he was attentive to 
the concerns of the institution ; always taking a 
lively interest in every thing that respected its wel- 
fare. During the eleven years oi" his ministry in 
this tovvu, the religious society v»ith which he was 
connected grew and flourished. The attachment 
was strong and mutual. While they admired his 
diligence and fidelity, he received from them every 
testimony of respect, which marks the character 
of a kind and obliging people. He was very ac- 
tive in encouraging those books, which are design- 
ed for the use and benefit of children ; for he was 
their sincere and affectionate friend ; and very afta- 
ble and kind with all classes of people. He gave 
advice with cheerfulness, and with an attention to 
the concerns of his acquaintance, which invited 
their confidence. 

The friends of Dr. Belknap w-fire numerous. 
He became a member of many literary and benevo» 



BEL 6i 

lent societies ; and he was active in pronnioting the 
good of every association to which he belonged. 
Wherever he could be of service, he freely devoted 
his time and talents. 

Of the Historical Society he was not only a dili- 
gent and laborious member, but may be consider- 
ed as the founder. While he was in New- Hamp- 
shire, he collected a great number of facts, dates 
and circumstances, and most valuable compilation 
of manuscripts, which might give information and 
entertainment to persons who desire to know the 
liistory of their own country. The letters which 
passed between the admiral and general at Louis- 
berg had been copied in a fair hand, to serve for a 
document of historick information. Col. Sparhawk, 
who married the daughter of Sir William Pepperell, 
not only obliged Dr. Belknap with the perusal of 
them, \\hen he was writing the history of New- 
Hampshire, but expressed a desire that he would 
deposite them in some cabinet, where they might 
be read by others, and be useful in future. This 
idea led Dr. Belknap to devise a plan for multiply- 
ing copies of this and other manuscripts, as the on- 
ly way to preserve them from fire or any accidents. 
He was the more impressed with the propriety of 
this, as he was witness to the destruction of Mr. 
Prince's valuable collection, which had been depos- 
ited in the steeple of the Old-South meeting-house. 
When he came to Boston, he suggested this to sev- 
eral of his acquaintance. In this town he met with 
a friend, Mr. Thomas Walcut, a worthy citizen, 
now livinsr, who had conceived the same idea of 
multiplying copies of old books, which he himself 
had of manuscripts, and who had made a great col- 
lection. to keep them for the service of future gene- 
rations. Dr, Belknap often mentioned to the wri- 
ter of this memoir, that what Mr. Walcut suggest- 
ed, of preserving books, and his own desire to pre- 
serve the letters of Sir William Pepperell, were the 
foundation of the Historical Society : an institution 



«2 BEL 

at first supported by the labours of a few, not suffi- 
ciently favoured by the publick ; but now claims a 
very considerable reputation among the literary in- 
stitutions of America. 

As an author, Dr. Belknap appears with great 
reputation. No one has been more justly celebrat- 
ed on this side the Atlantick. 'I he history of 
^ew- Hampshire is full of good information, well 
arranged, and written in a very handsome style. 
7he Foresters^ a work which mingles wit and hu- 
mour with a representation of the manners of the 
American people, he wrote in his leisure hours. It 
has passed through a second edition. The American 
Biography is a monument of his talents, his indus- 
try, and his knowledge. He lived to publish one 
volume, and to prepare another, which has been 
printed since his death ; and it has been well ob- 
served, that this event put a stop to the progress of 
a useful and interesting work, for which the pub- 
lick voice pronounced him peculiarly qualified, and 
■which the world of letters hoped he might extend 
through the successive periods of his country's his- 
tory. 

Other publications of Dr. Belknap did much 
credit to his character, as a minister of the gospel ; 
but it is as a historian, biographer, and promoter of 
general knowledge, that he holds so distinguished 
a place among eminent characters. As a theolo- 
gian, he had his equals ; and though his sermons 
were well composed, and filled with useful observa- 
tions, yet we have been used to read such discours- 
es ever since the American wilderness has been cul- 
tivated by pious hands, or become a part of the 
Lord's vineyard. But very few have excelled as 
fine writers, historians, philosophers, poets,, like the 
scholars of the European schools. We have been 
led, therefore, to set no small value upon the lives 
of such men as Dr. Belknap and the late Judge Mi- 
not, who would have been eminent in any literary 
society ; men, who wrote not so much for the love 



BEL 63 

M^^fame, as a desire of being useful ; yet who gain- 
ed a celebrity of character, and will be held in ever- 
lasting remembrance. 

Dr. Belknap was subject to paralytick complaints, 
some years before he died. These he considered 
as indications of a speedy dissolution. He died 
suddenly with a return ot this disorder, in June, 
1798. 

Bellamont earl of, arrived at Boston 26th of 
Ma}^ 1699, being appointed to the government 
of Sew York and Massachusetts Bay. He was in 
the chair fourteen months, and by the urbanity of 
his manners, and his obliging disposition, he render- 
ed himself as amiable in private life, as he was, in 
his station, the object of publick esteem. The gen- 
eral court made him grants, for his services, while 
he remained in this province, to the value of 1875 
pounds sterling, a much larger sunn than his pre- 
decessor, or any of his successors obtained. Dur- 
ing his administration, harmony subsisted among 
all branches of the legislature ; for he knew how to 
secure the friends of Mr. Cook, and the enemies of 
Dudley. He died at New York, ten months after 
he had left Massachusetts, March 5th, 1701. 

Bellamy Joseph, D. D. one of the most cele- 
brated divines of New England, was born in the 
county of New Haven, Connecticut, He was 
graduated at Yale College, 1735, being then six- 
teen years old. When he was eighteen he became 
a preacher. He was ordained at Bethlehem in 1740, 
then an obscure village, but such a retired situation 
as would suit a person devoted to his studies. In 
1742, his zeal blazed in the cause of the great re- 
vival of religion, and he could not be confined to 
one spot of the vineyard, but went from place to 
place to encourage the work. He preached in dif- 
ferent parts of Connecticut, Massachusetts and New 
York, every day ; and several times a day as occa- 
sions offered. Those ministers who were blessed 
with a good voice, an easy utterance, a sensibility 



64 BEL 

that would glow, and a zeal that would burn, were 
sure of crouded aud'uories ; and were followed, by 
multitudes, for private instruction. Mr Bellamy, 
with many others, indulged lively hopes of success ; 
and were ready to think, the day of glory dawned 
upon a dark and deluded world. But the prospect 
was soon clouded, and all their expectations were 
frustrated. *' Many ignorant and vain pretenders 
to uncommon attainments in religion, set up for 
publick teachers ; divisions and separations were 
multiplied ; the religious awakenings declined fast ; 
the enemy triumphed ; and the friends of Zion 
mourned." Satan upon this occasion acted a dou- 
ble, as well as wicked part, according to the senti- 
ments of a pious writer, from whom the sentence 
above is quoted. He first " attempted to put a stop 
to this good work by open opposition, and at length 
transformed himself into an angel of light. This 
produced a flood of enthusiasm and false religion, 
under various names.'"' Mr. B. soon retuned to his 
stated labours at Bethlehem, finding that he could 
not be useful as an itinerant ; and applied his mind 
to writing a book, which he called " true religion 
delineated," which was much read, passed through 
several editions, and certainly marks the writer as a 
man of very discriminating judg nent, and high the= 
ological attainments. The first edition was printed 
in Boston, 1750. 

In his sentiments, he was a supralapsarian Calvin- 
ist, one of the first and most eminent divines of the 
sect, called frequently Edwardians, Hopkintonians, 
and in some places by his own name. Wherein 
they differ from the old Calvinists, is not the place 
of a biographer to point out, but the subject is dis- 
cussed in the histories of our churches, and con* 
troversies which have arisen from Dr. Bellamy's 
writings. 

besides " true religion delineated," he wrote 
" dialogues on Theron and Aspasio, by Paulinus," 
•'sermons on the divinity of Christ," " the mille- 



BEL 65 

nium, and the wisdom of God in the permission of 
sin," •' essav on the gospel," "the great evil of 
sin," '"■ the law our schoolmaster," " early piety re- 
commended;" these were single sermons. 

He also published several pieces on " creeds and 
confessions ; on the " covenant of grace ;" and on 
"church covenanting." 

Nir. Bellamy was fond of preaching upon doctri 
nal subjects, and diffusing the peculiarities of his 
own belief. His manner of preaching was grave, 
solemn and impressive. He had not a melodious 
voice, but it was strong and manly. When he was 
a young man he was doubtless very popular, which 
was not the case in his declining years, owing either 
to less concern upon people's mind about religion, 
or to his own failure in delivery He was frequent- 
ly heard to mark the difference of times and man- 
ners, when the aged rose up before him, and when 
the rising generation would pay little respect to his 
grey hairs. Serious people always regarded him, 
especially men of speculative inquiry. Many had 
profited by his works, and among the ministers of 
Connecticut, who have a high reputation in their 
profession, several received their education from 
him. He kept a school for theological students at 
his house after they had passed their college exer- 
cises, and entered upon the study or profession of 
divinity. 

Among the correspondents of Dr. Bellamy, was 
Dr. John Krskine, of Kdinburgh, a man who has 
done much honour to the cause of religion, and 
given of his abundance to pious and charitable uses. 
This gentleman had a very high opinion of Mr. 
Bellamy's talents and usefulness, and through his 
influence, a diploma from Aberdeen of doctor in 
divinity was presented to him ; which at that time 
must have been honourable as a distinction, it be* 
ing among the first if not the very first doctorate in 
tlie colony. But it was still more honourable to 

K 



66 BEL 

Mr. Bellamy, as it gave satisfaction to the friends, 
of learning and religion. 

It would be wrong if no particular mention were 
made of the friendship between president Edwards 
and Dr. Bellamy. He drank deeply of his spirit, and 
though not so profound a reasoner as that great 
man, in metaphysical researches, who may be just- 
ly called the Locke of America^ was eminent as a 
logician ; and an able divine. Their intimacy con- 
tinned till the death of Mr. Edwards. 

Dr. Bellamy died, March 6, 1790, in the 72d 
year of his age, and 50th of his ministry. Rei). ISoah 
Benedict'' & Juneral sermon. 

Bellingham Hichard, governor of Massachu- 
setts Bay, under the first charter, was a lawyer of 
some celebrity, and a very learned man, compared 
with his contemporaries in New England. He ar- 
rived at Boston, 1635, and was chosen lieut. gov- 
ernor, Mr. Haynes being the same year introduced 
to the ciiair. From this year, he was chosen a ma- 
gistrate (Mr. Winthrop succeeding, 1636, to his 
place as lieut. governor) till the year 1641, when 
he was elected governor by a majority of six votes. 
The inhabitants of the province who lived at a dis- 
ance from Boston were much displeased at the con- 
duct of Bellingham's friends, and when the general 
court met, it was voted not to make the grant of 
^'100, which had usually been made. The next 
year gov. Winthrop resumed the place. Mr. Bel- 
lingham was continued a magistrate till the year 
1666, when he succeeded gov. hndicot. 

He was strongly attached to the freedom, civil 
and religious, which the people of New England 
enjoyed. ^I'he commissioners, who came to in- 
quire into the state of the province when Charles 
H. was on the throne, looked upon him, therefore, 
with a jealous eye. By their representation, he, 
with four other gentlemen, were required to answer 
for their conduct before the king. The ostensible 
reason was, that they were best able to give a true 



B E R 6V 

Jiccount of the province, but it was well known they 
were odious to the commissioners, and had been pre- 
sented to the court of Great Britain as men disaffect- 
ed to his majesty's government. It seems from the 
history of those times, our general court dibcover- 
ed some political craft upon the occasion. They 
pretended to be of a doubtful mind concerning the 
king's letter. But if it were genuine, it expressed 
only a desire to know the state of the colony ; and 
every thing appertaining to publick affairs, or their 
internal state, could be communicated without 
sending away such a number of useful magistrates. 
The debates of the house became very earnest. 
Some thought it necessary to obey the king's order, 
others said it would be injurious to their privileges. 
The measure was violently opposed, and the gen- 
tlemen never left New England. Mr. Bellingham 
was elected governor of the province this same 
year, and continued in the chair till he died, which 
event took place, Dec. 7, 1672. As a man he was 
benevolent, upright and active in business ; as a 
christian, he was devout, zealous, attentive to ex- 
ternal forms as much as " to the hidden man of the 
heart." As a governor, he loved the people, and 
maintained the honour of his station. He leaned 
rather to the democratick side of politicks, which 
is not to be wondered at, considering the arbitrary 
measures of the court when he left England. 

By his will, governor Bellingham left his large 
property at Rumney Marsh for pious and charita- 
ble uses. The general court set aside the wilL 
Hut chi?i son's History. 

Bernard Francis, governor of Massachusetts, 
was viescended from a respectable family, educated 
in the university of Oxford, and vvas a proctor, or 
solicitor at doctors commons when chosen to sue- 
ceed governor Belcher as governor of New Jersey, 
in 175S. He was removed to Massachusetts in 
1760, and arrived at Boston in the month of Au- 
•gust. The commencement of his administration 



68 B ER 

M^as favourable ; but in the course of It was preg. 
iiant with evil to the community. In his first 
speech to the general court he says, " my duty as 
the king's servant, my incUnation as an Engiisliman 
conspire together to form the strongest obligation, 
that i should be most careful in preserving not only 
your general rights, but also those particular privi- 
leges which have been granted by vour charter.'* 
At this session they granted X' 1300 as his salary for 
the current year ; and presented him with an island 
called Mount Desert, the title to vv'hich was after- 
wards confirmed by the king, 'jliere v/as no great 
subject of altercation between the governor and 
h.ouse of representatives, until the peace of Paris in 
1763. It was a period of glory and triumph for the 
British nation of which the remote parts of the em- 
pire partook. The people of North America had 
made great exertions in the common cause, and 
Avere fully sensible of it. The provincial soldiers 
deserved well for their courage and activity ; a 
pleasing idea was indulged of lasting harmony and 
friendly intercourse between the parent country and 
her colonies ; unfortunately this was soon disturb- 
ed, and the governor of Massachusetts was one of 
the instruments in bringiiig on such political de- 
bates as caused the most troublesome animosities. 
He was always obedient to the mandates of a minis- 
try, unfriendly to the interests of the colonies ; and 
became the dupe of their crafty policy and ambi- 
tious designs. In 1764 restriiints v.'cre laid upon 
the trade of the plantations by certain acts of the 
parliament of Great Britain ; which were succeeded 
by a direct tax upon the colonies. Nothing could 
have given greater offence to the people on this side 
of the Atlantick, than the stamp act, which iMr. 
Greuvillc introduced into the house of commons 
towards the close of this year. It is true, however, 
that before the stamp duties were laid, the minister 
called a meeting of the agents, and requested them 
tp propose any other tax as a substitute for the 



B ER 6^ 

stamp act, to which he affirmed that he was not 
particuhirly attached ; botthey remonstrated against 
this, and every kind of direct tax whatever, as a 
measure to which the colonists would never sub- 
mit. When it was known in America that such an 
act had passed, and was to be put into immediate 
operation, it arrested the attention of every class of 
people ; it roused a spirit of resentment which me- 
naced every man in power ; and alienated the af- 
fections of the colonists from a country, to which 
they had hitherto looked with reverence as the land 
of their fathers The friends of prerogative became 
peculiarly obnoxious, and in particular the crown 
governors. It was natural indeed to suppose that 
if the agents of the colonies had been consulted, 
that these immediate servants of the government 
must have had their share of influence. Bernard 
"was of an arbitrary disposition, and had alv/ays been 
hostile to the freedom which was enjoyed in New 
Kngland. Upon several occasions he had treated 
the people with contempt ; the house of representa- 
tives with arrogance, and even the council with dis- 
respect, though several oi this body were his friends 
and favourites, and supported his measures, when- 
ever they could do it without risquing the highest 
resentment of their constituents. The stamp act 
was repealed in 1766; this was a cause ot great 
joy to the people ; but the wiser statesmen in the 
plantations were still dissatisfied, for the very ad- 
ministration which had repealed this obnoxious act 
had passed another declaratory of the right of par- 
liament to tax all parts of the empire ; this was de- 
signed as a mere declaration and a salvo for the 
honour of parliament ; but another ministry were 
not content w ith this. It was said to be necessary 
thatthcre should be some acknowledgment or acqui- 
escence at least on the part oi America tothisefiect, 
or the act was nugatory and lifeless. Charles Town- 
send was employed to put a soul into it, which he 
did by bringiiig iorwi.rd a duty upon oil and co- 



70 BEK 

lours, upon tea, &c. These taxes were to be levi- 
ed in the colonies, and a board was constituted call- 
ed the commissioners of the customs and placed in 
Boston : Charles Paxton, a most odious creature of 
government, was one of the commissioners. He 
wrote to Great Britain and solicited that troops 
might be sent over for their protection. The gov- 
ernor also, was favourable to this scheme. Troops 
soon after arrived in 1768 ; this afforded a subject 
of controversy between the governor and the inhab- 
itants of Boston, about providing quarters for them. 
The letters which he wrote to criminate the town, 
discover his temper, and his views. These were 
procured by the generous care of William Bollan, 
esq. through whom they presented their defence, 
in answer to the slanderous aspersions of the gov- 
ernor, and at the same time acknowledged to Mr. 
Bollan the grateful sense they had of his services. 

From this time the newspapers were filled with 
sarcastick remarks upon the character and conduct 
of gov. B. with satirical descriptions of his domes- 
tick habits, and with essays upon law and govern, 
inent. in opposition to sentiments delivered by him. 
In one of his addresses to the council, he com- 
plained of a piece in the Boston Gazette, which 
ended with these lines, 

" And li such men arc by God appointed, 
" The devil may be the 1 ord*s aniioii)led." 

Upon which the council resolved, that the piece 
wa-j scandalous and blasphemous ; which stimulated 
the writer to explain himself in a still more excep- 
tionable manner. 

In Feb. 1769, the house of representatives sent 
a circular letter to the other American colonies, 
which gave great offence to the governor. He de- 
manded of the next general court that they should 
rescind the vote by which their predecessors had 
authorized this letter to be sent ; this was refused, 
but 17 members out of 109 voting for it. 

In August, following, he dissolved the general 



B ER Tl 

court, finding them not subservient to his will. 
Upon which, votes were passed in most of the 
towns in the province, which were published in the 
newspapers, declaring him a traitor and an enemy 
to the country. 

4His administration had now become so odious, 
burdensome, and vexatious ; and there were such 
constant altercations between him and the general 
court, that it seemed necessary he should be re- 
moved from the government. A petition to the 
king was forwarded, to request t^is might be done, 
but it had no effect. He was in high favour at the 
court of Great Britain, where his administration was 
the subject of praise, and his services were reward- 
ed with a title. He was now sir Francis Bernard, 
baronet of Nettleham, in Lincolnshire. He soon 
after obtained leave to return to England, and in 
the month of August, 1769, he sailed from Boston 
in the Rippon man of war ; and never returned to 
the province. 

Gov. Bernard left but few friends in the place, 
where he passed ten years of his life. He was not 
calculated to gain the affections of the people ; and 
such as had a political attachment to him, soon 
lost their regard, after he had laid down his au- 
thority. Such men never have those friei^dships 
which give a charm to social life. It is worthy of 
remark, that those of his own household were of 
the number who afforded amusement, by furnishing 
the most ridiculous representations of his parsimo- 
ny, and domestick meanness. There were, however, 
some respectable traits in his character, and these 
ought to be mentioned. He was sober and tem- 
perate ; had fine talents for conversation, if the sub- 
ject pleased him. He had an extensive knowledge 
of books, and memory so strong as to be able to 
refer to particular passages, with greater facility 
than most men of erudition. He would sometimes 
boast that he could repeat the whole of the play;- of 
Shakespeare. He was a friend to literature, and in- 



72 B L A 

terested himself greatly in favour of Harvard Col- 
lege, when Harvard Hall with the library and philo- 
sophick apparatus, were destroyed by fire. After 
which, he presented to it a considerable part of his 
own private library. The building which now bears 
the name of Harvard is a specimen of his taste^^in 
architecture ; and while it was building, he w^ould 
suffer not the least deviation, from his plan, to be 
made. He was a believer in the principles of 
Christianity, which was the effect of study as well as 
education, and was regular in his attendance upon 
publick worship f attached to the church of Kng- 
iand, but no bigot. When he resided in the coun- 
try, he seldom rode to Boston upon the sabbath, 
but commonly attended service at the nearest con- 
gregational church, which was in Brookline, though 
his house was within the boundary of Roxbury. 
He gave also as a reason for this preference, that the 
preacher in Brookline was shorter in his services 
than most puritanical divines, and in particular than 
the Roxbury minister. After his return to Lngland 
he printed several pamphlets, chiefly letters, or such 
as had the form of letters, to men in power, which 
contained his principles of law and policy while in 
America. He wrote several pieces of the elegiac 
kind in greek and latin, which are printed in a col- 
lection made at Cambridge after the death of George 
II. and the accession of the present monarch to the 
British throne. The collection is styled " Pietas et 
Gratulatio," &c. which was printed, in 176 1, with a 
dedication to the king from the pen of lieut. gover- 
nor Hutchinson. 

Blackman \dam, was a minister in Derby. 
shire, but came to New England with the early 
planters. He makes one of the fir^t class, as Dr. 
Mather call^ them ; men who were in the actual ex- 
ercise of their ministry when they left England. He 
was settled first at Guilford, then at Stiatford, in 
Cc^nnecticut, and vvas so good a preacher, that the 
fartious Hooker made a speech of this kind, " If he 



B OL 73 

might have his choice, he would live'and die under 
Mr. Blackmail's ministry. 

The epitaph upon iVIelancton is applied to him 
by the author of the Magnalia. Book III. page 95. 

Cui Jiiveiis toto regnabat pectore candor ; 
Uiium cui Coelum, cuia laborq ; fuit : 
Nuin Roj^itus, qua sit dictus ratione Melancton ? 
Scilicet Fttxintwu qua ratione vocant. 

BoLLAN William, agent for Massachusetts at 
the court of Great Britain, was born in England and 
came over to Boston with Shirley, when he was ap- 
pointed governor. In 1743, he married his excel- 
lency's second daughter, who died at the age of 25 
years. She was a most amiable and accomplished 
lady. Mr. Bollan was a lawyer of eminence in his 
profession, and was ad'uocate general^ when he was 
chosen agent for the province, and sent to England 
to solicit the reimbursement of the charge in taking 
and securing Cape Breton. In obtaining this he 
discovered as much address as fidelity ; he acted 
like a wise man, who would persevere till he gained 
his object. When the other agent was willing to 
compromise for a sum which would redeem the bills 
at their depreciated value, he set the matter ih a 
clear light, and *' made it evident that the deprecia- 
tion of the bills was as effectually a charge borne by 
the people as if the same proportion of bills had 
been drawn in by taxes ; and refused any accom- 
modation without the full value of the bills when is- 
sued "* 

Of his services in this business, and in all affairs 
of the province, the people were fully sensible, but 
he was not a man whom the general court of Mas- 
sachusetts wished to keep in office. His relation 
to Shirley, his belonging to the episcopal church, 
and being an Englishman, created prejudices in the 



• Mr. aq^ent Bollan arrived in Boston, Sept. 19, 1740, with 
653,000 ounces of silver and ten tons of copper : which makes 
175,000 pounds sterling, granted for reimbursement of the Cap« 
Breton expedition, Indep-endent Advertiser, 



74 BOL 

minds of many in the house of representatives. 
These were the men who opposed Shirley, a man 
averse from the habits of New England, and who 
endeavoured to introduce a more arbitrar\ system 
of government, than his predecessors conceived, or 
the body of the people would submit to. They 
were friends to Pownal, who professed himself a 
high whig, and afterwards became the pointed ene- 
mies of Bernard. Mr. Bolian even gained so much 
influence as to be sent ag-ain to Enq-land after he had 
returned with the money. Several attempts were 
made to displace him when Shirley left the province. 
His services, his knowledge of provincial business. 
his faithfulness had been a security. In 1762, he 
was dismissed, and Mr. Mauduit succeeded him, 
a worthy man, but whose only merit to raise him 
to this station was, his being a leading character of 
the dissenters. He soon resigned, confessing him- 
self unequal to the business. The house of rej^re- 
sentatives chose Richard Jackson, and then Mr. 
Debcrt ; but Mr. BoUan was employed by the coun- 
oil, and in this capacity continued to serve the pro- 
vince. In 1768, he obtained a copy of the letters 
written against the town of Boston by gov. Ber- 
nard, gen. Gage, &c, and from this time he became 
a most popular man amongst those who once could 
not view him with any complacency. Mr. Hancock 
declared in the house of representatives, that there 
was no man to whom the colonies were more indebt- 
ed, ard whose friendship had been more sincere. 
In 1775, he was active in promoting the interests, 
and honour of the mother country ; by seeking for 
conciliatory measures, which he pressed with all his 
influence, and much care and concern. We hear 
nothing of his publick character after this year, and 
the year of his death is not to be found in any obit- 
uary of our American newspapers.* 

• His printLcl works are, Importance and advantage of Cape 
Breton truly stated, London, 174 6 ; Colonix Anslicanx illustra- 
ise, 4to. London, 1762 ; Ancient right to the American fisiiery 



B O W 75 

BowDOiN James, governor of Massachusetts, 
was born in Boston, 1727. His father rose from 
common life to an eminence among the merchants 
of the town, and was supposed to leave the greatest 
estate which ever had been owned by any individu- 
al of Massachusetts. His ancestors were French 
refugees, who left their country after the revoca- 
tion of the edict of Nantz. They first went to Ire- 
land, and then came to New- England, 1688. 

The subject of this memoir was the youngest 
son, who, discovering some proof of early genius, 
was sent to the grammar school of his native town, 
of which Mr. Lovel was preceptor. He finished 
his education at Harvard Collee-e, where he was 
graduated, 1745. He very soon became a distm- 
guished character among the citizens of Boston ; 
was chosen ci representative to the general court, 
1756 ; and from this year continued in publick life 
till the year 1769, when he \^as negatived by gov. 
Bernard, on account of his being the most leading 
whig at the council board. He was, the next year, 
sent representative from Boston ; chosen a counsel- 
lor ; and accepted by Mr. Hutchinson, because he 
thought his influence less prejudicial *' in the house 
of representatives, than at the council board." He 
was one of the committee that drew the answer to 
the goverour's speeches where he asserted and en- 
deavoured to prove, by strong arguments, the right 
of Great Britain to tax America. For this he had 
the honour of being negatived by gov. G ige, in 
1774, who declared that '' he had express orders 
from his majesty to set aside from that board the 
hon. Mr. Bowdoin, Mr. Dexter, and Mr. Win- 
throp." 

During this memorable year, delegates were 
chosen to meet at Philadelphia, which was the first 
congress of the United States. Mr. Bowdoin was 

examined and siuttd, 4to. London, 1764 ; rrcedon\ of speech 
and wiiljng upon publick affuit's considered, 4lo. London, ITTO. 



7& BOW 

the first member of the Massachusetts delegation. 
He was prevented from attending his duty by hiy 
ill state of health. Mr. Hancock was afterwards 
chosen in his place. In 1775, when the town of 
Boston was blockaded, ^ir. Bowdoin was modera- 
tor of the meeting, when the inhabitants agreed to 
give up their arms to gen. Gage, on condition of 
their being permitted to leave the place with their 
property, and without disturbance. In this busi- 
ness he conducted with great prudence and firm- 
ness, and was one of the first who went out of 
Boston after the agreement. It is well known how 
shameiuUy the promises of the British command- 
ers were violated. Mr. Bowdoin took his place as 
chief of the Massachusetts council at Watertown, 
and was of the Ji/teen, who by the charter were to 
act in the room of the governour, when the office 
was vacated. In 1779 — 80, the convention for es- 
tablishing a state government for Massachusetts 
met at Cambridge, and afterwards at Boston. Of 
this body, Mr. Bowdoin was president. During 
tlie years of 1785 and 1786 he w^as governor of 
the state. When the constitution of the United 
States was planned, and the Massachusetts conven- 
tion met to consider whether it should be adopted, 
Mr. Bowdoin was at the head of the Boston delega- 
tion, all of whom voted in favour of it. He made a 
very handsome speech upon the occasion, which may 
be read in the volume of their debates. From this 
time, he changed the tumult of publick scenes, for 
domestick peace, and the satisfactions of study. 

He always had been a student. He was an excel- 
lent scholar at college, and afterwards pursued phi- 
losophical studies, having left his mercantile busi- 
ness, that he might enjoy otiuni cum digmtate. His 
letters to Dr. Franklin have been published. When 
the American academy ot arts and sciences was insti- 
tuted, he was appointed the first president, and con- 
tnbuted several papers which were printed in the 
first volume ot their transactions. He also pro- 



BOW 77 

noiinced an oration, " upon the benefits of philoso- 
phy," which was printed in a pamphlet, and also in 
the volume, with the proceeding> of the society. 
His literary reputation was not confiT»ed to his own 
country. He was a member of several foreign soci- 
eties for the promotion of agriculture, arts and com- 
merce. He was also fellow of the royal society, 
London. He received a diploma of doctor of laws 
from several universities of hurope, and from Phi- 
ladelphia, as well as his Alma Mater at Cambridge. 
It was a great acquisition to this seminary, to have 
him connected with their government. As a mem- 
ber of the council he was ex officio, one of the 
overseers. And he was elected a fellow of the cor- 
poration, which office he executed with great judg» 
ment, honour and fidelity, but which he resigned 
when he was chosen governor of the Commonwealth. 
He was a munificent friend to the college. Beside 
his donations to the library, and philosophical ap- 
paratus, he left £ 400 Massachusetts currency to 
be appropriated to certain purposes, as mentioned 
in his will. His large and valuable library was 
given to the academy of arts and sciences. 

In other walks of life Mr. Bowdoin was conspic- 
ous and useful. When the humane society was 
instituted he was chosen the first president. He 
was always ready to promote every literary, benev- 
olent and religious institution. He exhibited the 
virtues of social life in all their engaging lustre, and 
he also breathed a christian spirit. 

His mind was imbued with religious sentiments, 
by his education, and formed to the love of good- 
ness : he was fond of theological inquiries amidst 
the course of his other studies. Few men, who are 
notof the profession, have studied divinity with more 
earnestness, or greater desire to obtain knowledge of 
the scriptures. He early in life became a commu- 
nicant at the church in Brattle-street. When the 
people of this society took down their ancient build- 
ing, it Wi'S the desire, of many to rebuild their church 



n BOY 

in a more eligible situation. Mr. Bowdoin offered 
a spot, ^vhich is now one of the most valuable es- 
tates in the town. The majority preferred the 
place where their fathers had worshipped- His of- 
fer being declined, he contributed largely towards 
erecting the present noble and superb edifice. That 
religion which had supported him through various 
scenes of his life, was the source of consolation, du- 
ring a long course of sickness, owing to a frame 
naturally delicate. He recommended to the rising 
generation to read bishop Butler's analogy, from 
which he had derived much lo strengthen his own 
principles. He died universally lamented, Nov. 6, 
1790. He left one son, the hon. J. Bowdoin, late 
plenipotentiary at the court of Madrid, and one 
daughter, the lady of sir John Temple, late consul 
general of Great Britain in the United States F em- 
ber ton^s Mss. P rhate 'mformatioji. 1 hac her'' s Sermon. 
BoYLSTON Zabdiel, F. K. S was born in 
Brookline, 1684. He had the advantage of only a 
common education, bat rose to be the most emin- 
ent medical practitioner in the town of Boston. 
What gave him peculiar distinction was, his suc- 
cess in inoculation for the S7nall pox. In 1720, 
he introduced this practice, and is known to be the 
first physician in the Bi itisli dominions that dared 
to do it. It was risquino- his reputation and life. 
The famous Dr. Cotton Mather recommended this 
method from an account of inoculation at Constan- 
tinople, which he had seen in the philosophical 
transactions. He first communicated it to Doug- 
lass, a Scotchman of more learning than true wis- 
dom, who treated the proposal with ill nature, and 
contempt.* 

* Dr. Ramsay, in hisRevievv of Medicine, in the 18th ccntni'V} 
gives great credit to the clergy lor tlieir exertions at this time. 
'i he fact is, u clergyman first rtcommended it, and that Dr. 
Boylston was supported by them itirovigh all his embarrass- 
ments. Dr. Coln\am, as well as Dr. Mather, wrote in favour of 
it; as a body, tlie Bos^ton ARso'ia'ion \yn\\ii6.io stop he tor- 
rent of prejudice, which bore down all before it. Some of the 



BOY 79 

He then made application to Dr. Boylston, a man 
of more sagacity and moral worth, who gave it to 
his own children and others ; and met with won- 
derful success. Douglass became a convert, when 
he had made use of every method to injure his 
brother physician, whom he called a bold and ig- 
norant quack," many years after this. By this new 
mode of treating the small pox in Boston, 274 per- 
sons were inoculated by Dr. B. 1721, and very few 
died. '1 he practice was very soon introduced in 
the Island of Great Britain, and with equal success. 
Every attention was paid to Dr. Boylston while 
he was in England ; among other honours he was 
chosen fellow of the Royal Society, which was a 
re»vard of merit, sufficient to balance the rough 
compliments of his professional acquaintance, the 
canting abuse of persons righteous overmuch, and 
the coarse epithets which issued from the foul 
mouths of the vulgar. 

He wrote several papers in the philosophical 
transactions of London. We know not of any 
other publications, except the pamphlet he printed, 
on the " benefit of inoculation." 

After a long period of eminence and skill in his 
profession he retired to his patrimonial estate in 
Brookline to pass the remainder of his days. He 
died there on the 1st of March, 1766; and was in- 
terred in his own tomb, which bears the following 
plain, appropriate, and just inscription." 

" Sacred to the memory of Dr. Z. Boylston, esq. 

eFerp;)' received pev^onal injiirv, others were insulted in the 
street, and were hardly safe in llieir houses. The people weie 
not willing to hear them on Sunday, till the success of tiie prac- 
tice made ihem think it was the hund of Providence in their fa- 
vour. The newspapeis were filled with arguments for and a- 
gainst it. The C'o«r«r?/, printed by the Franklins, was under the 
influence of the Physicians, who abused tlie clergy for their in- 
terference in the matter. Every bad consequence was painted in 
lively colours by these learned editors, who tiiought inoculation iin 
favourable to the health of people, even if they had the small pox 
winre fuvoi'.ra!)Iy than common, &c.8<c..'V<'w EngtandCoitrant^Wil. 



80 BRA 

physician, and F. R. S. who first introduced the 
practice of inoculation into America. Through a 
life of extensive beneficence, he was always faith- 
ful to his word, just in his dealings, affable in his 
manners ; and after a long sickness, in which he 
was exemplary for his patience and resignation to 
his Maker, he quitted this mortal life, in a just ex- 
pectation of a happy immortality, March 1, 1766.'* 
Thacher''s Memoir. Pierce's Sermon. 

Bradfobd William, gov. of Plymouth colo- 
ny, was born in a village called Ansterfield, 1588. 
When he was eighteen years old he went over to 
Zealand, where he was taken up by an officer, as 
a deserter from Kngland, but soon released, having 
given a good account of himself. He then pro- 
ceeded to msterdam, and served his time till he 
was of age, in " working of silks." He became a 
man of industry in his business, converted the es- 
tate he had in England into money, and behaved 
with great prudence among those religious people 
who had left hnglandto enjoy peace of conscience ; 
with whom he conthiued till the church at Leyden 
agreed to transport themselves to America. When 
they reached Plymouth, he lost his wife, which was 
a most melancholy event, and attended with aggra- 
vated circumstances of grief, as she accidently fell 
from the vessel, and was drowned. After governor 
Carver died, he was unanimously chosen governor 
of the plantation. No man could discover more 
prudence and fortitude than Mr. Bradford. In 
those times, when their souls were tried with every 
difficulty, he was not cast down with the discour- 
aging state of their affairs, or by the clouds which 
covered their future prospects. He found it nec- 
essary to manage things differently from what had 
been proposed. For, in order to resemble the 
primitive church, the planters had a common stock. 
He was of opinion that to encourage industry, each 
individual should be master of his own property ; 
and they all soon perceived the advantage of the 
measure. 



BRA 81 

lie was required to exercise his wisdom in anoth- 
er mutter, which threatened evil to the plantation,, 
and where the religion they held so dear was wound- 
ed in the house of its friends. Every account of 
the settlement of Plymouth mentions the conduct of 
Ilyford who attempted to disors;anize their church, 
and who was detected by the vigilance of the gov- 
ernor. Mr B. had afterwards a hard task to exculpate^ 
the colony from a charge of dissembling with his 
majesty in a petition, wherein they declared that 
their church discipline did agree with the reformed 
churches in Europe. His answer to this charge 
is ; that they had kept to their agreement, had. 
been falsely accused, and denied that they were 
Brownists, or, like those Sectaries, renounced 
the church of Kngland. Mr. B was a good wait- 
er, compared with others of those times, though 
his style may seem uncouth to modern ears. He 
understood several languages ; latin, greek and he-, 
brew ; French and Dutch he spake ; and was con-j 
versant with theology. He was in the chair above 
thirt/ years, and died. May 9th, 1657, aged 69. 
Mr. Winslow was elected governor, 1633, 1636,; 
1644, and Mr. Prince, 1634, 1657. Kvery other 
year the old governor was elected. Magnalia^ Book 
11. page 5. 

Bradstreet Simon, was of Emanuel College, 
Cambridge, vv^hence he removed to the family of 
the earl of Lincoln, as his steward, and afterwards 
he lived in the same capacity with the countess of 
Warwick. He married one of Mr. Dudley's 
daughters, and alter her death, a sister of sir George 
Downino;. He lived to be tlie Nestor of New Kn- 
gland; was born in the beginning of the century, m 
1603, and wanted but two or three years of com- 
pleting it. 

This gentleman, one of the fathers of Masschu- 
setts, was a magistrate many years, and, in 1662, 
was sent to England as agent, at a time of peculiar 
difficulty, when ' it required more wisdom than he 

M 



82 BRA 

possessed, though he was a prudent and worthy 
person, to answer ihe expectations of the people. 
Mr. Norton was his assistant. Their business was 
to represent the colony as his majesty''s loyal sub- 
jects, when it was well known that they were actu- 
ated by republican sentiments, and were puritans of 
a strict denomination, with no knid of reverence for 
bishops or nobles. They met with a more favour- 
able reception than their friends in England had an- 
ticipated ; and returned with a letter from the king, 
which caused much joy ; and led the agents to sup- 
pose that they had done their duty completely ; and 
that their business was successful. But when the 
general court met, and the whole subject of the let- 
ter was discussed, it appeared to some of the mag- 
istrates, and to the leaders of the populace, that 
their charter privileges were invaded, for they were 
required to send their laws to be reviewed in Eng- 
land, and such as might be found contrary to the 
king's authority to be annulled. There was also a 
violent attack upon their religious prejudices, and 
upon the habits and customs of the plantations ; 
for liberty was given to every man to use the com- 
mon prayer, and that all of honest lives and conver- 
sations should be admitted to the sacrament ot the 
Lord's supper, and their children to baptism. 

When the resentment of the people was excited , 
it did^ riot fall upon Mr. Bradstreet so much as 
Mr. Norton, who had to defend himself against the 
religious bigotry of the age. But neither gentle- 
man could retain his popularity, nor resist the pub- 
lick obloquy. Mr. N. died, it was said of chagrin, 
while Mr. Bradstreet continued to discharge the 
duties of his other station, being conscious of rec- 
titude, or feeling a cold indifference towards the 
opinion and the clamours of the multitude. Every 
impartial person who now recurs to those transac- 
tions will rather wonder, that, at such a court as 
Charles II, they could obtain so much, than think 
that they were worthy of blame. In 167^, Mr, B. 



BRA 83 

was chosen governor. Hutchinson represents him 
as the head of the moderate party while he was in 
office. The deputy governor, Mr Danforth, led the 
popular side : Stoughton, Dudley and Brown of 
Salem were inclined'to the royalists. They fell in 
with the governor, and were afterwards disposed to 
go beyond his measures When Mr. Dudley was 
appointed to be the head of administration, Brad- 
street was appointed counsellor, and refused the 
commission. He opposed with earnestness An- 
dross's arbitrary proceedings. And when the peo- 
ple put down his authority, they made choice of 
their old governor for their president ; he contiiuied 
their first character till the arrival of sir William 
Phipps, with the new charter, and then the venerable 
old charter governor resigned the chair, which ex- 
cited the sympathy of many, who remembered an- 
cient times, and beheld the scenes now opening, and 
which were to introduce more prosperous days, 
with the sigh of regret, and emotions which they 
could not express. Governor Bradstreet died at 
Salem, March 27, 1697, aged 95. He had been a 
magistrate, secretary, agent, commissioner for the 
United Colonies, ami governor of the province. 
Not the most highly esteemed by any party, but 
despised by none ; upright as well as moderate in 
his principles. '■^Medium est nj'irtiis quod tenuisse ju- 
vat." This is good as a lesson for children, and 
agrees well with the christian religion. But it op- 
poses the views of enterprising men, the turbulent 
spirit of the ambitious, and the zeal of those who 
delight in controversy. Hutch, 'vol. /. page 18. 

Brattle Thomas, treasurer of Harvard Col- 
lege, was graduated at that seminary, to which he 
was always a munificent friend, 1676. And was 
chosen treasurer, 1693 ; which office he retained till 
his death, 1713. 

He was an eminent merchant of the town of 
Boston, a benefactor to the poor, and a useful, as 
well as opulent citizen. From himy one of the 



84 BRA 

streets took its name ; and he was the principal 
founder oi Brattle-street chureb- He was cquallv 
dibtingiiibhtd for his good sense and good breed- 
ing ; liis liberality of sentiment, his genius and 
learning ; and his zeal for the pubiick prosperity. 
He was obliged to engage in a controversy witii 
certain of the clergy and laity, too much attached 
to the platform of the New ii,ngland churches, when 
he proposed the plan of the new church ; but lie 
behaved with equal spirit and honour : and having 
obtained the consent of Dr. Colman to be pastor, 
who was ordained in England, the society grev, 
and flourished under his care ; and has ever been 
considered as one of the most respectable upon the, 
congregational establishment. 

There was another occasion of exerting his tal- 
ents, when the country v>'as under the strangest de- 
lusion, and a number of innocent persons suffered 
an ignominious death, from a suspicion of witch- 
craft. Mr. B. wrote an account of those transac- 
tions, which was too plain and just to be published 
in those unhappy times, but has been princed since ; 
and which cannot be read without feeling sentiments 
of esteem for a man who indulged a freedom of 
thought becoming a christian and a philosopher. 
He, from the beginning, opposed the prejudices of 
the people, the proceedings of the court, and the 
perverse zeal of those ministers of the gospel, who. 
by their preaching and conduct, caused such real 
distress to the community. They, who called him 
an infidel, were obliged to acknowledge, that his 
wisdom shone with uncommon lustre. 

JVlr. Brattle is recorded among the benefactors of 
Harvard College, and when he died they lost one of 
their best and most useful officers. 

"Though Mr. B. was the author of several fugi- 
live pieces, we have have nothing under his name 
but the work to which allusion has been made, and 
•which is styled, " a full and candid account of the 
delusion called witchcraft which prevailed in New 



BRA 85 

England ; and of the judicial trials and executions 
at Salem, in the county of I'ssex, for that pretended 
crime, in 1692. H st. ColL^^^oL V. page 61 — 80. 

Brattle William, minister of the church in 
Cambridge, was the brother of Thomas, and born 
at Boston, 1662. Was graduated 1680; and cho- 
sen tutor and fellow of the corporation. 

In the year 1696, he was fadained, and still kept 
np his connection with the college, though he left 
the immediate sfovernment and instruction. He was 
active in promoting every thing which would ad- 
vance the interest and prosperity of that literary so- 
ciety. His benevolent disposition stimulated him 
to give largely to indigent students, and he be- 
queathed a handsome legacy, which is now employ- 
ed for their benefit. 

He was himself a very accomplished scholar, 
a great logician, a philosopher, a writer of philolog- 
ical taste, as well as eminent in theological learning. 

As a preacher, he was pathetick, soft, melting 
and persuasive. A son of consolation ; for his spir- 
it dwelt not mfire, nor could it ride in the storm. 
He was the particular friend of pres. Leverett, Dr. 
Colman, and Mr. Pemberton, three of the most el- 
egant men of New England in their manners, as 
well as the cultivation of the mind. Mr. Brattle 
had also an extensive correspondence abroad, and 
was fellow of the royal society of London. 

Mr. Agent Dummer in one of his letters gives an 
exalted character of the Cambridge minister in a 
few descriptive lines. *' I think the modern ser- 
mons which are preached, and printed, are very lean 
and dry, having little divinity in them or brightness 
of style ; I am sure they are no way comparable to 
the solid discourses which Mr. Brattle gives you 
every week." 

This excellent man died Feb. 15, 1717, aged 55. 
The inscription on his tomb is given by Dr. Holmes 
in his history of Cambridge iv^any particulars of 
his life and preaching are also recorded. 



U B R E 

Dr. Colman preached a funeral sermon upon Mr. 
Brattle, which may be read as a most beautiful eu- 
logy from the hand of a wise and judicious friend. 

Mr. Brattle published a compendium ot logick, 
*' secundum principia D. Renati cartesii plerumque 
efformatum, et cate chistice propositum." '] his 
passed through several editions. It was studied, in 
college till the year 1765, and is now valued by men 
of learning as an excellent compendious system ; 
but is found only among rare and curious books. 

Brewster William, a distinguished character 
among the first planters, was born, 1560. He was 
educated at the university of Cambridge. When 
queen Klizabeth made a league with the states of 
Holland, she sent Davison, as her ambassador, who 
carried Mr. Brewster with him, as his secretary, in 
whom he placed the greatest confidence, and who 
gained the esteem of that people. The keys of 
Flushing were committed to him while the negotia- 
tion was pending, and when the business was fin- 
ished, he received from the states a golden chain, as 
a reward of merit. The ambassador was afterwards 
disgraced, owing to the capricious humour of his 
mistress, who always laid her own faults upon her 
courtiers. His faithful secretary adhered to him, like 
the true friend, in the time of adversity. The same 
integrity Mr. B. manifested in all his affliirs, and 
through all the changing scenes of life ; for his pi- 
ous zeal operated upon the virtuous affections of his 
iioul. He was so highly respected in the church 
of Leyden, as to be chosen their ruling elder ; and 
he acted like a shepherd in leading the flock through 
the paths of the wilderness He would not accept 
the office of pastor, but preached to the people who 
came over with him to Plymouth, and performed 
most part of a minister's duty. The church were 
benefitted by his labours, and would have been hap- 
py if he had consented to admhiister the ordinances, 
lor lie w is wise, learned and prudent. By his in- 
fluence he might have prevented those disorders 



B R I 8T 

ivliich sprang from the gifted brethren, who, were apt 
to speak ; and from those ignorant or designing men, 
who took upon themselves the pastoral office. 

Elder Brewster was as bold in defending the 
plantation against the Indians, as he was meek and 
humble when diffusing the light af truth, or describ- 
in": the offices of love. He lived to be 84 years old, 
and his usefulness increased with his years. He 
was able to work in the field and preach to the peo- 
ple till he was called out of the world, April 16, 
1644. Morto7i^ Pr'mce, Belknap. 

Bridge Thomas, pastor of the old or first 
church, w as born at Hackney, in England, 1657 ; 
had a liberal education, and, as a man of business, 
travelled over diffi^rent parts of Europe ; and from 
being a merchant of integrity and honour, he be- 
came a pious and useful minister of religion. From 
the Mediterranean sea he made a voyage to the West 
Indies. He first preached at Jamaica ; from that 
island he went to New Providence, and while he 
resided there was the principal man in the place- 
Thence he proceeded to Bermuda, and was remark- 
ably assiduous in a time of pestilence and great 
mortality. It is said he preached twenty nine times 
in one month. His first place of residence in North 
America was West Jersey, and he came to Boston 
about the year 1705. He was ordained in May, of 
the same year, being invited to the pastoral care of 
a flock, whose famous predecessors were to be suc- 
ceeded. " The light was now fixed in a candle- 
stick,"" according to the language of Cotton Math- 
er, " and shone lor eleven years together, some of 
the rays of which we have in his printed composi- 
tion." He died, Sept. 26, 1715, aged 58. 

He has been thus characterised by a writer more 
Elegant, though less learned, than Dr. Mather, as a 
man upright and conscientious, meek, mild, quiet, 
gentle ; not the brightest and most active of his 
brethren, but a goodly speaker ; his gravity and 
composure were neither frigid, nor austere ; prayer 



88 BUG 

was his gift^ the bible was his Ubrary.* Cohnaiis 
funeral sermon. 

BucKMiNSTER JosEPH, minister of the church 
in Rutland, was educated at Harvard College. He 
received the honours of the seminary, 1759; was 
ordained at Rutland, 1742; and continued a faithful 
and laborious pastor of that church above 50 years. 
He was highly respected by the neighbouring clergy, 
for his piety and usefulness, and as much esteemed 
by his flock. He was in principle a ^;/^/(7j&^(3/7(^« 
Calvinist. In defence of these sentiments he en- 
gaged in a controversy, and his writings discover 
solidity and strength of mind, attention to theology, 
and an ardent desire that all men should believe 
what he supposed the doctrines of the scriptures. 
In 1719, Mr. Foster, of Stafford, printed a sermon, 
in which he held forth a twofold justification ; and, 
" a remedial law, or law of grace, whose precepts 
are brought down to a level with the fallen sinner's 
abilities ;" according to which they are able to do 
well, and so ensure their future felicity. This was 
judged a heretical sentiment by the ministers in 
Worcester county, and Mr. B. printed a pamphlet 
on Rom. x. 4, which is an ansv/er to Mr. Foster, , 
and for which he received a vote of thanks from the 
association, signed by Nathan Fisk, scribe. Mr. 
F. replied, and several pamphlets were written. 

Mr. Buckminster also published dissertations u])- 
on gospel salvation, Ephes: ii. 9, 10, 11. In these , 
he holds the doctrine of election against the Armini- 
ans ; but on the other hand in opposition to the su- 
pralapsarians, he says, '-' The decrees have no di- 
rect positive influence upon us. We are determin- : 
ed by motives, but act freely and voluntarily. They 
lie in the foundation of the divine proceedings, and 
compose his plan of operation. They infer the cer- 
tain futurition of things, but have no influence ab 

* His printed discourses are, 1. The tnind at ease. 2. What 
faith gan do. 3, Jethro's counsel. 4. A Kcrmon to the artillery 
rompany. 



BUL 89 

extra to brinj^ them to pass. Whom God chooses, 
he calls ; yet choosiac^ is one thing, and calling 
another," &c. And although Mr. B. allows '' no 
promises ol special favours to the unregenerate ;'* 
yet he will grant " that encouragements are given 
as grounds of hope ; and which carry the nature of 
a promise." 

Air. B. died in the 73d year of his age, Nov. 27, 
1792.* He left a son in the ministry, rev. J. Buck- 
miaster, D D. of Portsmouth, whose son, the rev. 
J. S. Buck minster, is minister of the church in 
Bnittle street, Boston. 

BuLKLE-Y P» TER, the first minister of Concord, 
Massachusetts, was the son of Edward Bulkley,D D. 
an eminent minister in Bedfordshire, whose name 
is mentioned with respect in the book of the mar- 
tyrs. At the age of sixteen years he was admitted a 
member of St. John's college, Cambridge, and while 
he was junior bachelor, was chosenyd'/Zoiy ; and then 
proceeded bachelor of divinity. He came to New 
England, 1635 ; resided at Cambridge some months, 
and then preferred a place in the more interior part 
of the country. The spot was pleasant, and from 
being one of the towns of the first planters, has 
since become one of the most flourishing in the 
county of Middlesex. It still bears the name of Con- 
cord, which he gave it; and the twelfth church was 
gathered here, which had bc^en founded in the colo- 
ny. He possessed a handsome estate ; and it is also 
reported of him that he gave away a number of 
farms to several persons who became good hus- 
bandmen. Some of them had been his servants, and 
became respectable men among the yeomanry. Dr. 
Mather s^ys he was a most excellent scholar, a per- 
son of extensive reading, who gave advice to young 
students. He was also a benefactor to Harvard 

* His publications are, an ordination sermon, a sermon upon 
family religion, paraphrase on Rom. x. 4, dissertations on F.phes. 
li, 9, 10. 11, and a sermon upon the covenant made with Abra- 
ham, &c. 

N 



50 B U L 

College at the beginning of that literary institution. 
Having a handsome library of his own, he endowed 
the publick library at Cambridge with a considera. 
Ule part of it. He was a man of hasty spirit, and 
quick at shewing resentment ; disposed likewise to 
make severe remarks in his sermons : was one of 
the strictest of the puritans, and had given offence 
op this account to some of the moderate party in the 
old country, as well as to the enemies of the dis- 
senting interest. 

During his ministry the pastor and ruling elder 
had a dispute, and it ended in requiring the elder to 
abdicate his seat. They called an ecclesiastical 
council, and this was the advice. The improve- 
ment he made of this unhappy contention may be 
profitable to ministers in other places, some of whom 
meet with trials from false brethren ; or those who 
are wise in tlieir own conceit. Mr Bulkley learned 
from it, to " know more of God, more of himself, 
and more of men." 

This worthy man died, A. D. 1658, aged 77. 
He was an author of uncommon reputation, and 
wrote handsomely in Latin or English. The first set- 
tlers of Massachusetts were in general excellent lat- 
in scholars, and many of them made a figure in the 
universities of Europe. It seems Mr. Bulkley was 
a poet ; he wrote poems when he was above 72, 
which have been praised by scholars of the next age.* 

The year before he died he composed the follow- 
ing epigram, 

Pij^ra senectutis jam venit inutilis etas, 
Nil aliud nunc sum quam fere pondus iners. 

• He printed several books ; one ujmi.tlie covenant ; several se;- 
mons upgn Zee ix 1 1 Concerning thesc.Mr. Shepherd of Cam- 
bridge, says, ' The church of God h botmd to bless God, for the 
holy, judicious and learned labours of this aged servant oj Christ, 
who has taken fiaim to discover, and that, not in words and allego- 
ries, but in demonstration and evidence of spirit, the great mystery of 
godliness tvrefit up in the covenant. 



Da tamen, alme Deus, dum vlvam, vivere laudi 

Eternum sancti nominis usque tui. 

Ne vivam (jotius nioriar I) nil ulile agendo 

Finiat opto inagis, mors properata dies. 

Vel doceam in sancto cxtu tua verba salutis, 

Cxlestive canam crntica sacra cliovo. 

Seu vivam, moriarve, tuus sum, Christe, quod uni 

Debita vita mea est. debita morsque tihi. 

BuLKLEY John, minister of Colchester, Con- 
iiecticut, is mentioned by Dr. Chauncy as one of 
the greatest men of New England. He knew him 
wlien he himself was a young man, and often spake 
of him in company with his brethren ; relat- 
ing things astonishing of his memory. In a written 
account of him, in a letter to Dr. Stiles, he says, 
" that Mr. Dummer and he, who were classmates at 
college, were accounted the greatest geniuses of the 
day. The preference was given to Dummer in regard 
ol quickness, brilliancy and wit ; to Bulkley in regard 
to solidity of judgment and strength of argument." 

Mr. Bulkley was the son of the rev. Gershom 
Bulkley, and grandson of Peter Bulkley of Con- 
cord. He was graduated at Harvard College, 
165^9, and died, suddenly, June, 1731. 

In 1729, he printed an account of an impartial 
debate at Lyme, " upon the subjects of baptism, 
the mode of baptising, and the maintenance of min- 
isters." No other publication appears with his 
name. 

Burnet William, esq. governor of Massa- 
chusetts, son of Gilbert Burnet, bishop of Sa- 
rum, was born at the Hague in March preceding 
the revolution, and named William after the illus- 
trious prince of Orange, who was his godfather. 

The great part which his father had in the acces- 
sion of that prince to the British throne, and his 
steady attachment to the Hanoverian line, brought 
him early into the notice of the court. In the year 
1720, he was in the post of comptroller of the cus- 
toms, which he exchanged for the governmeirt of 
New York and New Jersey. He arrived at New 
York, Sept. 19. The first speech he made, discov- 



92 BUR 

ered the abilities of an elegant scholar, and the man- 
ners of a gentleman. '* 1 serve a prince, the best 
that ever was, from whom I may expect the most 
gracious acceptance of my labours ; I succeed a 
gentleman who left this province in a flourishing 
state, and is still ready to declare for its interests ; 
1 meet a council and assembh^ who concurred with 
liim, and assisted him in those gre it and good mea- 
sures, that are now confirmed by his majesty, and 
have been so eifectual to secure publick credit, and 
the peace of the province." His administration was 
very acceptable to the people, till an opposition 
arose from the merchants of the city, on account of 
an act passed against the sale of goods to the French, 
which were proper for the Indian trade. This law 
was advantageous to the province ; biit enterprising 
speculators, and the importers of merchandize, did 
not regard the general good so much as their own 
advantage. They discovered their malevolence 
against the governor, and being able to bring some 
censure upon him, because, as chancellor, he had 
given decrees, in several instances, contrary to a le- 
gal process, owing to a quick decision, from the 
sensibility of his temper, they were able to do him 
considerable injury. Whether it was owing to this, 
or what Hutchinson suggests, to gratify a favourite 
who wanted the government, he was removed from 
this place, to iVlassachu.-.etts, on the accession of 
George II. We are told that with reluctance he 
lelt New York ; lie had many friends among the 
wise and patriotick, who equally regretted the loss 
of such a ruler. 

In his first speech to the Massachusetts assembly, 
he informed them of his instructions to insist upon 
a fixed salary. The assembly voted a sum equal 
to 1000 pounds sterling, which was more than any 
governor had received ; and also made him several 
handsome grants towards his support, and the ex« 
pences of his journey. These he accepted, but re- 
fused the salary. He had now to resist the argu- 



BUR 93 

merits of the legislature, and the tumult of the peo- 
ple. The people of Boston, from their love of free- 
dom, were against a permanent salary. They dis- 
cussed the subject at the town meeting ; on this 
account the governor adjourned the court to Salem. 

The general court, directed their agent, Francis 
Wilks, esq. to make application to his majesty to 
afford them relief. Mr. Belcher was joined with hin> 
in the agency, and they procured all the aid in their 
power. In the mean time the house became impor- 
tunate for their pay ; but the governor withheld his 
warrant from the treasury ; not having received any 
himself, he thought they might as well go without 
theirs. 

The election for counsellors, A. D. 1729, was 
held at Salem. During this session, the beginning 
of August, the governor communicated to the house 
the result of their address to the king, which was 
unfavourable to their wishes. The same month he 
adjourned them to Cambridge. This was styled a 
grievance ; but the death of the governor put an 
end to nil further disputes. 

The 31st of August he was taken with a shiver- 
ing fit after some time spent in fishing on Water- 
towii pond ; he did not confine himself; paroxisms 
of fever succeeded, which terminated in a coma. He 
died, Sept. 7, 1729. The pall bearers, at his fune- 
ral, were lieut gov. Dummer, col Taylor, col. 
Winslovv, col. Hutchinson, col. Brown, and col. 
Fitch. The rev. Mr. Price preached the funeral 
sermon, from Eccles. ii. 17. 

" Gov. Burnet was large in stature, he had a ma- 
jestick port and countenance, mixed with a great 
deal of sweetness ; he was frank and open in his 
manners ; his sagacity penetrating ; of ready wit, 
and sound understanding ; his learning, in books 
and manners, which he had improved by travelling 
over Kurope, enabled him to suit himself to the 
tempers and conversation of all men. He was a 
christian upon principle, having studied under such 



U CAB 

men as hiis father and sir Isaac Newton, In his 
youth he had inclined to infidelity, but afterwards 
become a scholar in sacred as well as profane stu- 
dies.'* 

From an account of him in Chandler's life of pre- 
sident Johnson, we should suppose he was an in- 
quirer of some liberality. He persuaded Johnson 
to read Whiston, and Dr. Clark's works, " so that 
he was in danger of becoming an Arian, which the 
governor wished him to be." But according to 
other accounts there appears an inconsistency. For 
while he was governor of Jersey he prepared a 
bill that fixed a penalty upon all who denied the Sa- 
viour's divinity, or the truth of the scriptures. This 
was more pious than judicious. It might have pass- 
ed in some of the provinces, but here the Quakers 
had an influence which was exerted against it. 

In the year 1724, he printed an " essay on 
scriptiu'e prophecies," which is a work of ingenui- 
ty as well as piety, the result, perhaps, of his in- 
quiries when he was under the care of sir Isaac 
Isewton. 

While he was governor of Massachusetts, he an- 
swered a letter of a popish priest in Canada, which 
contained a reflection upon the first reformers. 

These works praise him, are really curious and 
worth preserving. 

Cabot Sebastian, who first discovered the 
continent of North America, was the son of John 
Cabot, an enterprising navigator, a Venetian, was 
born, 1467. When he was a youth he made seve- 
ral voyages with his father, and brothers. In 1552, 
he projected the plan of the first voyage of the En. 
glish to Russia, and laid the foundation of that ex- 
tensive commerce which has ever since been carri- 
ed on between the two nations. He was also the 
first who took notice of the variation of the needle. 
He died, 1557.* 

* This spring, 1496 John Cabota, a Venetian, sails wilh two 
sliips IVom Enf^iand, sieers west^vard, discovers the shore of the 



GAL 95 

Calef Robert, merchant, in the town of Bos- 
ton, rendered himself famous by his book against 
witchcraft, when the people of Massachusetts were 
under the most strange kind of delusion. The na- 
ture of this crime, so opposite to all common yense, 
has been said to exempt the accusers from observ- 
ing the rules of common sense. This was evident 
from the trials of witches at Salem, 1692. Mr. Ca- 
lef opposed facts in the simple garb of truth to fan- 
ciful representations ; yet he offended men of the 
greatest learning and influence. He was obliged to 
enter into a controversy, which he managed with 
boldness and address. His letters and defence were 
printed in a volume in London, IVOO. Dr. Increase 
Mather, was then president of Harvard College ; he 
ordered the wicked book to be burnt in the coU 
lege yard ; and the members of the old north church 
published a defence of their pastors, the rev. Increase 
and Cotton Mather. The pamphlet printed on this 
occasion has this title page, " Rernarks upon a scan- 
dalous book, against the government and ministry 
of New England, written by Robert Calef," &c. 
Their motto was, truth will come off conqueror^ 
which proved a satire upon themselves, because Ca- 
lef obtained a complete triumph. The judges of 
the court, and jury confessed their errors ; the peo- 
ple were astonished at their own delusion ; reason 
and common sense were evidently on Calef's side ; 
and even the present generation read his book with 
mingled sentiments of pleasure and admiration. A 
new edition was printed at Salem, 1796. It is wor- 

new world, in 45 degrees, norUi latitude, sails along the coast, 
northward, to 60, and then southward, to 38, some say, to Cape 
Florida, in 25, and returns to England. Prince. 

Dr. Belknap, also, supposes J. Cabot made the discovery which 
the European writers generally ascribe to his son Sebastian. He 
gave a good reason, that Sebastian was only 20 years old ; hence 
it is improbable he should have such a command. Sebastian and 
two brothers sailed with their father several voyages. It may 
be that he discovered the coast while aboard of his father's vessel, 
and hence the crf^dit has been given of making the voyage of 
discoverv. 



§6 C A L 

thy of observation that Hutchinson, who nas near- 
ly re.ated to the Mather family, speaks of R. Calef, 
as a man of a fair mind, who substantiated his facts. 

Callender John, minister of a Baptist church 
in Newport, was born in Boston ; educated at Har- 
vard College, where he received his degree, 1723. 
He was ordained at Newport, 1731, and continued 
a faithful pastor many years ; and still appears w4th 
great lustie among the worthies who have lived in 
this country. His " history of Rhode Island," is 
full of information. As a writer he is liberal, candid 
and faithful ; christians of all denominations may be 
edified by his pious remarks, and all who read, for 
the sake of histruction, may gain knowledge and re- 
ceive entertainment. This work was first preached as 
a century sermon, 1738. He then made great addi- 
tions, and published it as an " hisioricni discourse''^ 
The book is now very scarce. He i\ho printed an 
excellent " funeral sermon," which he preached af- 
ter the death of Mr. Clap, the venerable pastor of the 
first Congregational church. 

Mr. Callender was grandson of Ellis Callender, 
who joined the first Baptist church in Boston, 1669 ; 
and was a leading character among them when their 
meeting was nailed up by authority, 1680. He was 
invited to the pastoral office, 1708, and died in 1718. 
Klisha Callender his son, uncle to Mr. C. of New- 
port, who was graduated atHarvard College, 1 7 iO,suc- 
ceeded him, and died, 1737. He was ordained by 
the Congregational ministers of Boston.* C/iurc/i 
Records. Backus History. 

• In the account of Boston, 4lh vol. Historical Collections, the 
writer, who is generally very accurate and belonged to this soci» 
cty,has not given an exact statement of the first ministers, if Mr. 
Backus' history be correct, which we suppose is the case. — Com- 
pare /iacA-;/*' fi6?-Z6'5"t7/!^'«/', Seepage 144. Tliere is however a 
considerable mistake in .Mr Backus where he saith, Mr Elisha 
Callender joined the church in 1713, "after which he went to 
Harvard College," Sec. There is no Lilisha Callender in thc- 
coUege catalogue, except, 1710. 



CH A #t 

Carver iouN, goiiernour of New Plymouth, was 
one of the most active, useful and pious men of Mr. 
Robinson's church while they were at Leyden ; and 
iis praiseworthy while he lived with the pilgrims wlio 
first planted this part of North America, Carver 
and Cushman were the agents to agree with the 
Virginia company, and make provision for their 
voyage. The particulars of this voyage and of the 
settlement of the first colony in New England are 
preserved in extracts from Bradford's ms. history, 
which Mr. Prince made, and which have become 
more valuable as the ms. is lost. Mr Carver was u- 
nanimously elected governour as soon as they reached 
the shore. The instrument is dated, Nov 11, 1 6 20, at 
Cape Cod. N o man could have conducted more wise- 
ly than he did in this office ; he was firm, prudentj 
zealous for the good of the settlement, and to pro- 
mote virtue and piety among the planters. Unhap- 
pily for those who valued him so highly, and were 
allured and stimulated by his example, this worthy 
man and excellent magistrate lived a short time on- 
ly with them. He finished his pilgrirnage state, and 
entered into his rest, 5th of April, 1630. " He was 
buried with all the honours which could be shown by 
a grateful people. The men were under arms, and 
fired several voUies over his grave. His affectionate 
wife, overcome by her loss, survived him but six 
weeks. One of his grandsons lived to be 102 years 
old. In 1755, he, his son, his grandson, and great 
grandson were one day working in the field togeth- 
er." A town in the county of Plymouth has late- 
ly had the name of Carver given to it. Prince. 
Belknap. 

Chauncy Charles, president of Harvard Col- 
lege, who is styled in the Magnalia, Cadmus Ameri- 
canus, was born in Hertfordshire, educated in the 
school at Westminster, and at the university of 
Cambridge. He there too^ the degree of B. Do 
^eing intimately acquainted with archbishop Ush- 
er, one of the finest scholars in Europe, he had mor<; 
o 



US C H A 

than common- advantages to expand his mind, and 
make improvements in literatuie. A more learned 
man than Mr. Chauncy \\'as not to be found among 
the fathers of New England, He had been chosen 
Hebrew professor at Cambridi^e, by the heads of 
both houses, and exchanged this branch of instruc- 
tion to obHge Ur. WiUiams, vice chancellor of the 
university. He was well skilled in many oriental 
languages, but especially the Hebrew which he knew 
by very close study, and by conversing with a Jew,, 
who resided at the same house. 

He was also an accurate Greek scholar^ and was 
made professor of this language when he left the 
other professorship. In Leigh's critica sacra, there 
is a latin address to the author by a friend, C. C. 
who is called V'lr docLissiniiis, Sec. It is a commen- 
dation of the work in a hand>onie style. This un- 
comn\on scholar became a preacher, and was settled 
at Ware. He displeased archbishop Laud, by op- 
posing the book of sports, and reflecting upon the dis- 
cipline of the church. In Rushjonli's collections, 
there is this passage. " Mr. Chauncy using some 
expressions in his sermons which were construed to 
his disadvantage, ex : g : That idolatry was admit- 
ted into the church ; that the preaching of the gos- 
pel would be suppressed ; that there is as much a- 
theism, popery, arminianism and heresy crept in, 
&c." This being viewed as a design to raise a fear 
among the people, that some alteration of religion 
would ensue, he was questioned in the high com- 
mission ; and by order of that court, the cause 
was referred to the bishop ot London, being his or- 
dinary, who ordered him to make a submission in 
Latin. 

This worthy man came over to New Kngkmd. in 
1638, arriving at l'l\ mouth, Jan. 1st. 

He was soon after ordained iit Scituate. — One 
thing is worth mentioning to shew the spirit of the 
man, and the quaint manner of expression then in 
use. His text was, Piov. ix. 3. IVisdoni hath sem 



C H /\ 99 

forth her maidens^ and alluding to his cojnpliancc 
with the high commission court, he said with tears, 
Alas ! christians, /" am no rnaiden^ my said has 
been defiled iv it h false ivorship ; hoiv wondrous is 
the free grace of the Lord Jesus Christy that I 
should still be emplyed among the maidens of wis- 
dom ! When a stop was put to the Laudean persecu- 
tion he was invited back, by his former people at 
Ware; and it was his intention to spend the re- 
mainder of his life in his native councry. At this 
time, the chair of the president was vacant at Har- 
vard College. He was requested to accept it, 
and for a number of years performed the duties of 
that office with honour to himself, and to the repu- 
tation of that seminary of learning. " How learn- 
edly he conveyed all the liberal arts to those that sat 
under his feet, how constantly he expounded the 
scriptures to them in the College hall, how wittily 
he moderated their disputations and other exercis- 
es, how fluently he expressed himself unto them, 
with Latin of a Terentian phrase, in all his discours- 
es, and how carefully he inspected their manners, 
will never be forgotten by many of our most wor- 
thy men, who were made such by their education 
under him." When he made his oration on his 
inauguration he concluded it thus, " Doctiorera, 
certe prasidem, and huic oneri ac stationi multis 
modis aptiorem, vobis facile licet invenire ; sed 
amantiorem, et vestri boni studiosiorem, non inve- 
aietis." 

He was very industrious, and usually employed 
his morning hours in study or devotion. He con- 
stantly rose at 4 o'clock, winter and summer. In 
the morning he expounded a chapter, in the old tes- 
tament, unto the students assembled in the chapel ; 
and in the evening expounded a passage in the v.^w 
testament. Every Sunday he preached a serrnon 
instead of the morning exposition Yet with all 
his zeal, attention to his business and to his private 
studies, with his amazing application to every thing 



i(J6 tUA 

that was before him, he lived to be fknious, and 
preached to much acceptance at an age, to which 
few reach, and they complain " their strength is la- 
bour and sorrow." When his friends advised him 
to remit his publick labours, he answered, " oportef 
imperato mori stantem." 

At lenjJthj on the commencement, of 1771, he 
made a soleriih address, a kind of valedictory ora- 
tion ; and having lived to some good purpose, he 
prepared to die in peace, like a good servant who 
expected his reward. He died the end of this year 
etat 82, having been about 16 years pastor of the 
church in Scituate, and 17 years president of Har- 
vard College. 

He was a man very hasty in his temper : of this 
he was sensible and took great pains to govern it. 

President Oakes, who was minister of the church 
in Cambridge and succeeded him as head of the 
same literary society, preached his funeral sermon, 
and makes some apology for the quickness of his 
temper, — " the ?nentioti thereof \\'3.s to be WTapped 
upni tlijiih's mantle." 

President C. left six sons, all of whom were ed- 
ucated at Harvard College. '1 hey were all preach- 
ers. Some of them very learned divines. Dr. 
Mather says, they were all eminent physicians, as 
their father was before them. In a new country, 
where there are no physicians, a minister who is a 
scientifick man, may render himself eminently use- 
ful if able to practice physick ; but we are not of 
the opmioii of this gentleman that there ought to be 
no distinction between physick and divinity. One 
man had better not be engaged in more than his 
own profession, he may be learned in one thing, 
and superficial in another — a learned theolo^ 
gian and a quack doctor, as we have seen in modern 
times. 

The epitaph of president C. upon his tombstone is 
in the Iviagnalia. 



C H A 101 

Conditum 

hie est Corpus 

Caroli Chauncei 

S. S. Thcoloujiae Baccalaur. 

ht 

Colleffii Harvardini Nov. Angl. 

Per XV^II Annorum spatium 

Prxsidis Vigilantissimi, 

Viii plane iiileigerrinji, 

Concionatoris Eximii, 

Pietate 

Pariter ac Liberuri Eruditione 

Ornatissimi. 
Qui obiit in Domino, Feb. xix. 

An. Dom. MDCLXXI, 
Et Etutis su£, LCLXXXil* 
Chauncy Charles, pastor of the first church irt 
Boston, was a great grandson of president Chauncyj 
and had much of the genius and spirit of his ancestor. 
He was born, Jan. 1st, 1705. His father, the youngest 
son of the rev. Isaac Chauncy, Berry street, settled 
in Boston, as a merchant. Charles was only seven 
years old when his father died ; but had friends, 
who were disposed to give him every advantage of 
education. At twelve years old he was sent to iiar- 

• President Chauncy's sons were settled in different parts 
of the world. Isaac, the eldest, was pastor of the church 
in Berry ttreet, London. Dr. Watts was chosen his as- 
sistant in 1698, and succeeded hinn in 1701. Ichabod the 
second son, was chaplain of a regiment at Dunkirk. rhe«e 
sons were graduated, 1651. Nathaniel was minister of Hat- 
field, and Israel of Stratford They were graduated, 1661. 
Also Elnathan who was a preacher, but never settled. It is pro- 
!)able that he and his brother Barnabas who took his degree, 1657, 
died young. Israel lived longer than the others ; he was the 
youngest son, and died after the lommencement t f the eighteenth 
century. His ordination has generally been styled the leather 
fnitten ordination, and much ridicule has been thrown upon it by 
Episcopal writers. The fact was, tliat when he was settler': the 
laymen of the council insisted upon their right ■' of laying on 
hands," and one of the brethren forgot to take off his mitten; 
hence it has been made to appear as a ludicrous circumstance to 
lessen the solemnity of the Congregational mode of separating 
hiinisters. It was hot long after this, that in Connec\i<-ut and 
Massachusetts, the clergy deprived the brethren of this piivilege» 
But coqld we now refuse them if they insisted upon it ? 



102 C H A 

vard College ; was graduated, 1721, and considered 
as one of the best scholars who had ever received 
the honours of that seminary. It afforded great plea- 
sure to wise and good men of those times to see a 
descendant of that president, who had done so much 
honour to New England, come into life with such 
high recommendations ; and their hopes were high- 
ly gratified when he made divinity his siudy. As soon 
as Mr.Wadsworth was re moved from the first church, 
to preside at Cambridge, tlie eyes oFthat people were 
iixed upon this young man, and he was associated 
with Mr. Foxcroft in the work, of the ministry. He 
was ordained, 1727. Mr. Foxcroft and he were 
colleague pastors for about 40 years. After the 
death of l\is colleague, he performed the whole pa- 
rochial duty nearly ten years. In June, 1778, the 
rev. Mr John Clark was settled with him, whom he 
treated as a son, and who was always sensible of his 
paternal regards. Dr. Chauncy was one of the 
greatest divines in New I'.ngland ; no one except 
president 1-duards, and the late Dr. Mayhew, has 
been so much known among the literati of Kurope, 
or printed more books upon theological subjects. 
He took great delight in studying the scriptures. 
Feeling the sacred obligations of morality, he im- 
pressed them upon the minds of others in the most 
rational and evangelical manner. When he preach- 
ed upon the faith of the gospel, he reasoned of right- 
eousness, tem[)eranc€ and a judgment to come. It 
was said that he wanted the graces of delivery, and 
taste in composition. But it was his object to ex- 
hibit the most sublime truths in simplicity of speech, 
and he never, therefore, studied to have his periods 
poli-ihcd, or his st\ le adorned with rhetorical figures. 
His favourite authors were, Tillotson of the episco- 
pal church, and Baxter among the puritans. For 
he preferred the rich vein of sentiment in the ser- 
mons of the English divines, to that tinsel o^ French 
declamation so fashionable in our modern way of 
preaching. Upon some occasions, however, \)i\ 



C H A 103 

Chiiuncy could raise his feeble vioce, and manifest 
a vigour and animation, which would arrest the at- 
tention of the most cateless hearer, and have a 
deeper effect, than the oratory which is thought by 
many to be irresistibly persuasive : at all times, he 
was argumentative and perspicuous, and made an 
admirable practical use of the sentiments he deliv- 
ered. 

But it is as an author we are chiefly to view Dr. 
Chauncy in this biographical sketch. His clear 
head, his quick conception, and comprehensive view 
of every subject enabled him to write with ease and 
propriety. However quick, and sudden, and un- 
guarded in his expressions when discussing things 
in conversation, he reasoned coolly in all his con- 
troversial writings. His ideas were so well arrang- 
ed, and he had such a command of them, that he 
managed every subject with equal candour, liberali- 
ty, fairness and skill. In the episcopal controversy 
he obtained great celebrity. He first began this in 
a " sermon upon the validity of presbyterian ordina- 
tion, "preached at the Dudleian lecture, at Cambridge, 
1762. In 1767 he wrote his remarks upon a ser- 
mon of the bishop of Landaff. In 1771 he printed 
a complete view of episcopacy, *' the two first centu- 
ries." Beside these, he hud a particular controversy 
upon the subject of the American episcopate ; he 
wrote " an appeal to the publick answered in be- 
half of non episcopal churches" when Dr. Chandler 
of Elizabethtown, offered his " appeal to the pub- 
lick," in favour of episcopal churches ; to this Dr. 
Chandler wrote an answer styled, " the appeal de- 
fended,'' &:c. Dr. Chauncy made a reply to the 
appeal defended, and to this Dr. Chandler also re- 
plied in another large pamphlet. 

In the IVIiitefiddian contioversy,Dr. Cliauncy dis- 
covered more zeal than in his other works. In 1742 
and 1743 he published a "sermon on the various 
gilts of ministers ;" one upon " t n'husiasm," and 
smother on the *' outpourings of the Holy Ghost ;" 



4d4 CHE 

he also printed an '' account of the French prophets,'* 
and " seasonable thoughts on the state of religion." 
jftt the time of the great revival of religion, there 
"U'ere certain things of a dangerous tendency ming- 
led with it, which the Dr. saw fit to correct It 
makes an octavo volume in five parts, and by the 
list of subscribers, we find he was encouraged by 
many worthy ministers who differed from him in 
their doctrinal sentiments. His other large works 
are, " twelve sermons on seasonable and important 
subjects," chiefly upon justification, in opposition 
to the opinion of Robert Sandiman, 1765 ; the 
*' mystery hid from ages, or the salvation of all 
men ;" " dissertations upon the benevolence ot the 
Deity ;" these were printed 1734, and the next year 
he printed a volume " on the fall of man and its 
consequences " 

In 1 742, he received his diploma from the univer- 
sity of Edinburgh, the first from that seminary to 
an American divine He was also one of the Lon- 
don board of commissioners for propagating the 
gospel among the Indians ; and a corresponding 
member of the board in Scotland. His health, 
cheerfulness, activity and the powers of his mind 
Contin\ied to old age. He died, Feb. 10, 1787- Mr. 
Clarke preached his funeral sermon.* 

Chlckley John, minister of the Episcopal 
church in Providence, was born in Boston, of hng- 
lish parentage. He had no brother, and only one 
sister who died at the age of 17. The early part of 
his education he received at the grammar school in 

• In ihe lite of literary men, there are few incidents very re- 
markable. The notice of tliem must be an account of their 
works, the progress of their studies, and the fruits of their labour. 
Such a memoir of Chuuncy would make a volume, and we hope 
jvill stion be given to the pubhck by the pastor of the first church, 
a gentleman who is very able to delineate the cliaracters of his 
predecessors. The Dr. printed many occasional "Sermons. Tei) 
upon funeral occasions ; several at the ordin.ition of ministers } 
a sermon at the annual convention, 1744 ; the election sermon^ 
1747. He also left a number of mss. upon theological subjects. 



CHE 105 

Boston, then under the care of the famous Ezekiel 
Cheever, but afterwards he was sent to England, 
and finished his studies at the university of Oxford. 
He travelled over a great part of Europe, and col- 
lected some valuable curiosities, such as paintings, 
mss. Sec. He procured a valuable Hebrew bible, 
elegantly written on vellum, which, if it could now 
be obtained,, might be of some use, as well as an 
object of curiosity. When he returned from Eng- 
land he married the sister of the rev. Dr. Miller, 
episcopal missionary at Braintree, by whom he had 
two children, John and Rebecca. After this he went 
to England for orders. The bishop of London re- 
fused to ordain him, on account of his being a non- 
juror, and a remonstrance against him, signed by 
several of the clergy of New England, who repre- 
sented that he was rather an eccentrick character, 
than a man of serious deportment. He received or- 
dination some years after, and in the year 1739 was 
fixed at Providence, having under his care the 
church in that town, and the small assemblies at 
Warwick and Attleborough, to whom he preached 
once a month. He was a very excellent linguist ; 
was well acquainted with four languages besides the 
vernacular, Hebrew, Greek, Latin and Indian, which 
rendered him a companion for learned and curious 
men, all of whom were fond of the company of John 
Checkley, though some were offended with his 
opinions ; and others thought him too much of a 
wag, for an intimate acquaintance. Anecdotes con- 
cerning him were constantly repeated by people of 
the last generation, when a company wished to be 
entertained with witty stories, or ludicrous tricks ; 
many of these were, doubtless without foundation, 
but they mark the character of the man. One thing 
is true attested by his own writing. He was tried 
at the supreme court, held in Boston. Nov. 27, 
1724, for " publishing and selling a false and scan- 
dalous libel," for which he was fined fifty pounds, 
to stand committed until sentence be perform- 



105 CHE 

ed.* Upon this trial he made a speech m defence 
of himself, which he afterwards published in Eng- 
land. In this pamphlet, he also printed "the ju- 
ry's verdict ; his plea in arrest of judgment and 
the sentence of the court." The conclusion of his 
plea is these words, " The dissenters are affirmed to 
be no fiwiisters ; to be schismaticks, and excommu- 
7iicate by the laws oi England, which are part of the 
law of the land ; and therefore to say the same things 
of them, I humbly hope shall not be deemed a libel.'''^ 
After Mr. Checkley resided at Providence, his 
character was respectable as a divine, as well as a 

* Tho book alluded to, had this title, " A short and easy meth- 
od with the Deists. To which was added, a discourse concerning- 
episcopacy, in defence of Christianity, and the church of Eng- 
land, againsts the Deists and Dissenters." 

The latter part was Iiis own work, in which he made a viru- 
lent attack upon the clergy, and people of New England, and 
threw Sonne ?ude glances at the family on the throne of Great 
Britain. 

In the diary of Mr. Barnard of Marblehaad, he says, a letter 
was written to Bishop Gibson, declaring the true character of 
John Checkley, " that he was a bitter enemy to other denomina- 
tions, a non-juror, and that he had not a liberal education. He de- 
sired Mr. Newman, cur province agent, to acquaint the gentle- 
man that he never would ordain a person disagreeable to the peo- 
ple, but would fix at Marblehead a good man, loyal to the 
government, and of a catholick temper." The letter was sign- 
ed by Mr. Barnard, and Mr. Holyoke, ministers of that town, 
where Mr. Checkley meant to fix his residence. "The bishop 
of London read this letter to gov. Shute, and inquired of him, 
concerning the state of New England, who confirmed all which 
had been written. '1 he bishop of Exeter afterwards ordained 
Mr. Checkley, and he was sent to Narragansett." 

A pamphlet was printed, 1727, in Boston, called a modest 
" proof of the order of the churches," This gave rise to the 
first controversy upon the subject of episcopacy, was anony- 
mous, but supposed to be written by J. Checkley. Dr. Wiggles- 
worth, professor of divinity, answered it by " sober remarks up^. 
on modest proof." There was also another answer by Martin 
Mar, Prelate. 

Besides these pamphlets, Mr. Checkley wrote a small tract 
wpon predcstinatioTt, against the general ideas of the people of this 
country. Mr. Thomas Walter, a young man, an intimate friend 
of Checkley, wrote an ansv/er to it, and defended the Calvinis- 
tick doctrine. These pamphlets were published in the year 1715. 



CHE 107 

scholar ; he was, however, bigotted to his own no- 
tions, and took pleasure in making puritans of vari- 
ous denominations feel his satirical goads. He was 
likewise of the opinion that a prince of the Hano'o&' 
r'tan line ought not to sit upon the British throne; 
and also that no one could be completely virtuous, 
if he were not a high churchman. He died 1753, 
aged IS. 

Mr. C. had two children. A son v/ho was grad- 
uated at Harvard College, 1738; he studied divini- 
ty with his father, went to England for orders, and 
died of the small pox. His talents were excellent 
and he was a most amiable youth. The daughter 
married Henry Paget, an Irish gentleman She left 
three children, two of them are living at this time, 
united to very respectable connexions. 

Cheever Ezekiel, preceptor of the latin gram- 
mar school, Boston, came to New England, A. D. 
1637. He kept a grammar school in this country 
above seventy years. He in the first place fixed at 
New Haven ; was then invited to Ipswich, in Mas- 
sachusetts ; he removed from this place to Charles- 
town ; and from the year 1670, to his death, was 
preceptor of the school in Boston. He died, A. D. 
1708, aged 94. Many of the sons of Harvard Col- 
lege received the rudiments of their education from 
him. His accidence was taught in most of the 
schools till the revolution. In 1768, the twentieth 
edition was printed. He published also, a book 
*' upon the scriptures prophecies," which is now 
very scarce. His praise was in all the churches ; 
he was highly respected by the magistrates of the 
colony, and venerated by the people. Dr. Cotton 
Mather preached his funeral sermon. 

Cheever Samuel, minister of Marblehead, was 
son of the preceptor. He was graduated at Har- 
vard College, 1659 ; ordained at Marblehead, 1684 ; 
and died 1724, aged 85. His colleague speaks of 
him among the celebrated divines of New England, 
" A man furnished with good abilities, both natur- 
al and acquired ; a constant and zealous preach- 



108 C H U 

er."* The family were remarkable for longevity'^ 
Thomas, the second son of the famous preceptor, 
lived to the age of 93. He took his degree, 1677, 
and was pastor of the church at Rumney Marsh, 
now called Chelsea, Suffolk county. 

There were several other branches of this family, 
who arrived at ninety or above four score years. f 

Church Benja-min, a celebrated commander of 
the New England forces, was born at Duxbuiy, 
1659. His father, whose name was Joseph, came 
into this country for the sake of religious freedom. 
Benjamin was the eldest of three sons, of a vigorous 
constitution, brave as a soldier, and a well disposed 
member of society. When the country was alarm- 
ed with the preparations of Philip of Mount Hope 
he was one of the most active and vigilant of those 
who opposed his measures, and headed the party 
which surrounded that bold sachem when he was 
killed. 

In his own simple manner he relates the circum- 
stances which led him into the field when he was 
appointed to a command. " I was then building 
and beginning a plantation at a place called by the 
In^mws Sogkojiate, and since by the English, Little 
Compton, I Vv'as the first Englishman that built up- 
on that neck, which was full of Indians. My head 
and hands were full about settling a new plantation 
where nothing was brought to ; no preparation of 
dwelling house, or outhouses, or fencing made. 
Horses and cattle were to be provided, ground to be 
cleared and broken up, and the utmost caution us- 
ed, to keep myself from offending my Indian neigh- 

* Historical Collection, vol. X. 

t A daughter of Mr. Cheever, of Chelsea, died in Boston,- 
1778, at the age of 88. She was the wife of Mr. Benjamin Burt, 
goldsmith. They had two sons ; Ber.jamin, who followed his 
lather's business, and John^ wlio had a college education, was 
graduated, 1736, and ordained at Bristol, Rhode Island. He was 
sick when that town was burnt by the British men of war, and 
attempting lo escape the danger, he fell down dead in his field. 



C H U 109 

i)ours all around me. While I was thus busily- 
employed, and all my strength laid out in this labo- 
rious undertaking, I received a commission from 
the government to engage in their defence." He 
kept a journal of his military exploits, which is a 
very good history of the war, so far as he was en- 
gaged in it. This was published afterwards in a 
quarto pamphlet by his son ; a second edition of 
which appeared in 1772. Hutchinson speaks of 
colonel Church as a "fortunate officer;" Hub- 
bard had before described him, " both prudent and 
brave." The account is very entertaining, which 
is given of his skilful mode of fighting, and the 
various attacks he made upon the enemy. Philip 
was a formidable adversary to the New England 
settlements ; he had great address in stirring up the 
resentment of all the Indian tribe* against the white 
people, and was always ready to expose his life 
when it could be of any advantage ; but he was 
hunted upon the mountains and through the for- 
ests, and was never able to meet the English in a 
regular battle. He is represented as cruel, treach- 
erous, subtle, full of malice, but his enemies bring 
this account ; he had no friend to give a narrative 
of his exploits. Could he speak, he might tell of his 
brave actions, his zeal for his nation whom the white 
people oppressed, till they drove him to extremity. 
The last account of him is, " that after a vears ab- 
sence he returned to Mount Hope, where the In- 
dians were gathering to him, but he soon lost his 
friends, his family were taken prisoners, and he him- 
self escaped by running into a swamp." There he 
was killed, August 12, 1776. Capt. Church com- 
manded the party, but he was shot by one of his 
own men whom he had offended, and who had de- 
serted from him. After peace was made with the 
Indians, capt. Church resided at Bristol, and then 
settled at Seconet, 

In 1692, he was agaiii called into service. He 
was sent against the eastern Indians, took a number 



110 . CHU 

of prisoners, and burned their fort on Kennebeck 
river. Four years after this he commanded five hun- 
dred men, and sailed from Portsmouth for Penob- 
scot, and not finding the enemy, he reconnoitred 
the coasts, and took a view of Nova Scotia, but 
upon his coming to Chignecto, the French inhabi- 
tants fled, and the English plundered nnd burnt 
their houses. This was said to be done without 
the consent of the commander. It was his object 
rather to pursue the Indians. He was superseded, 
and the command g-iven to col. Hawthorne of Sa- 
lem. This was resented by Church, and Mr. 
Hutchinson speaks of it as an impolitick measure. 
In 1704, there was another expedition against No- 
va Scotia, and the command given to col. Church, 
the bravest and most experienced officer in Massa- 
chusetts colony. 

This expedition was a favourite measure of gov. 
Dudley, and in his speech to the assembly he says, 
that *' it struck a terror to the Indians, and was 
the means of preserving the frontiers." But he 
was blamed for it. It is one of the articles of 
charge against him in a letter to Dr. Mather, wrote 
to him, 1710.* Col. Church lived the rest of his 
days in easy circumstances. He died Jan. 17, 
1718, having a fall from his horse, which broke a 
blood vessel. He lies buried in Little Comptonc 
On his tomb stone is this inscription. 

Here lies interred tiie body 

of the honourable 

Col. Benjamin Church, Esq, 

who departed this life, 

Jan 17, 1717, 18, 

in the 78ih year of his age. 

His character is thus given by those who knew 
■him well. " A man of integrity, justice and up- 
rightness, of piety and serious religion. He was a 
member of the church of Bristol at its foundation. 

* See 4th vol. Hist. Coll. where the letters to the governor are 
printed from the origitial mss. of Dr. Increase and Dr. Cotton 
blather. 



CHU 111 

Constant in family worship, exemplary in observ- 
ing the sabbath, and attending the ordinances of the 
sanctuary. He lived regularly, and left an exam- 
ple worthy the imitation of his posterity. He was 
a friend to the civil and religious liberties of his 
country, and greatly rejoiqed in the revolution. 
He was col. of the militia in the county of Bristol, 
The several offices of civil and militarv trust, with 
which he was invested from time to time, through 
a long life, he discharged with fidelity and useful- 
ness." History of luar with Philip, Hutchinson^ s 
History of Massachusetts bay. 

Church Benjamin, physician in the town of 
Boston, was graduated at Harvard College, 1754. 
He rose to eminence in his profession, while he 
made a figure among the leading whigs, in the years 
preceding the revolution. He had genius and taste, 
and was an excellent writer in poetry and prose. Of 
his poetical pieces there remain some which are now 
read with pleasure. The " elegy upon Dr. Ma- 
hew," who died 1766. And the " elegy upon Mr. 
Whitefield," 1770, are serious and pathetick. The 
'' elegy upon the times" printed in the year 1765, 
is rather satirical ; but breathes the spirit which an- 
imated the patriots of that day. The poem No. 
XI. in the collection, styled " Pietas et Gratula- 
tio," in the opinion of the monthly reviewers, had 
the preference of the others. His prose writings 
were mostly essays of a witty and philological kind, 
which are scattered in ephemeral publications, 
though some of them, perhaps, are known by those 
who were contemporary with him. The oration 
on the 5th March, which he pronounced before the 
town, 1773, discovers a rich fimcy ; it is certainly 
one of the very best of the " Boston orations." 
When the war commenced in 1775, his character was 
so high, that he was appointed physician general of 
the army. This place was first oft'ered to Dr. War- 
ren, but he chose a more active scene, and had a 



il2 C L A 

commission as major general. Dr. Church was 
thought the next meritorious character for that sta- 
tion. But while he was performing the duties as- 
signed him, he was suspected of a correspondence 
with the enemy. Certain letters in cypher, were 
intercepted which he had written to a relation in 
Boston. He was dismissed from his post, impris- 
oned and tried. At his trial he made a defence 
which required talents to write, but which gave no 
satisfaction to the people. * 

Nothing indeed could then stem the torrent of 
their prejudices. Individuals, ho^^ever, were in 
doubt whether he meant evil, and nothing very trea- 
cherous appeared in the letter. The crime was in 
holding such a secret correspondence. 

In the year succeeding, lie obtained leave to de- 
part for the West Indies. No intelligence has ever 
been received of the vessel in which he sailed. 

Clap Nathaniel, minister of the first Congre- 
gational church in Newport, a descendant from one 
of the first planters of Massachusetts, was born in 
Dorchester, 1668. He was graduated at Harvard 
College, 1690, and while he was young, his praise 
was in the churches for his piety, learning, and ex- 
cellent pulpit talents. He began to preach in New- 
port, 1695, and in the midst of many discourage- 
ments became the pastor of the first Congregational 
church, planted in Rhode Island. Few of this de- 
nomination had settled in that colony. All the lead- 
ing characters were either Quakers or Baptists ; and 
their prejudices were strong against the order of the 
churches, and the ministers, of Massachusetts. 
Mr. Clap had a zeal to do good, and so very little 
of a party spirit, that he gained the esteem and af- 
fection of the inhabitants of the town, although dif- 
fering in religious opinions. The Congregational 
church, however, was not formed till the year 1720. 
He was ordained their pastor, Nov. Sd, of the same 

* This speech is published in the first volume of the collections 
of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 



C L A 113 

year. A few years after, a young man of talents 
preached among them, who became remarkably po- 
pular, so as to draw away the majority of the people. 
Thev would have consented that Mr. Clap should 
remain as the senior pastor ; but he chose to leave 
them rather than to have an associate whom he 
could not approve. Another church was built in 
the town, with whom he continued the remainder of 
his days. The interest the people of Newport took 
in his favour during his trouble was very lively. 
The ministers who went from Boston, and caused 
the separation of the society, met with a cold recep- 
tion ; thev were sensible afterwards of their error, and 
wished the result of council had been different. To 
be sure, there were oddities in the disposition of 
Mr. Clap, which may be imputed to his state of ce- 
libacy. He indulged some peculiarities, which ex- 
cited remark, and which might be exceptionable, 
where the character was less prominent for excel- 
lent traits. The great Dean Berkeley was very fond 
of Mr. Clap. He often spoke of his good deeds, 
and exemplary character. He said he was struck 
with the gravity of his deportment. In a conversa- 
tion, while he was in Boston, he said, " Before I 
saw father Clap I thought the bishop of Rome had 
the most grave aspect of any man 1 ever saw, but 
really the minister of Newport has the most venera- 
ble appearance. The resemblance is very great." 
Mr. Clap died October 30, 1745, etat, 78. Mr. Cal- 
lender, minister of the Baptist church, preached the 
funeral sermon, in his usual excellent and liberal 
manner of writing. " There are two things," said 
he, in which he excelled so much, that I must not 
omit them; his care about the education of children, 
and his concern for the instruction of servants. He 
abounded in contrivances to do good by scattering 
books of piety and virtue, not such as minister 
questions and strife, but godly edifying ; and put 
himself to a very considerable expense ih-.it he might. 
In. this method, awaken the careless and secure, 



lU C L A 

comfort the feeble minded, succour the tempted, 
instruct the ignorant, and quicken, animate and en- 
courage all.'* Callcnd. scnn. Private information. 
Clap TiioiviAs, president of Yale College, was 
born in Scituate, 1703 ; graduated at Harvard Col- 
lege, 1722; ordained at Windsor, Connecticut, 
1726, and continued a faithful and laborious pastor 
over that church, about fourteen years. He was 
then chosen rector of the college at New Haven. 
Mr. Williams resigned in 1740, and he was imme- 
diately elected to the office. The*title of rector was 
soon after changed for that of president. Mr. Clap 
was one of the most learned men of New England. 
As a theologian he was well versed in ecclesiastical 
history, the writings of the fathers, the sermons and 
controversies of modern divines. He was a Calvin- 
ist according to the Westminster confession of faith, 
attached to the principles of our fathers, and he set 
his face against every innovation in doctrine, or the 
discipline of the New England churches. Hence 
he bore his testimony against Mr. Whitefield, and 
that itinerant kind of preaching which succeed- 
ed his visiting these American provinces. After 
this, many separations were caused between minis- 
ters and their people, and gifted brethren rose up 
who despised the ministry, and made themselves 
conspicuous by their boasting. President Clap 
wrote several pamphlets on this subject. He after- 
wards wrote a book which he styled a defence of the 
New England churches against the Arminians, who 
were spreading their doctrines over Connecticut. 
In 1752, he drew the scheme of the new divinity, 
as he calls it ; or sums up the errors collected from 
several authors, viz. Chubb, Taylor, Foster, Hutch- 
eson, Campbell and Ramsay. At a general associ- 
ation of the ministers of the county, 1755, this book 
of president Clap, was approved ; and tliey recom- 
mend it to the associations " to insist much on the 
doctrines contained in this defence, and bear their 
testimony against prevailing errors ;" it was signed 
by Jared Eliot, moderator. 



CLA 115 

Mr. Clap wrote a history of Yale College, which 
contains many precious documents, and biographi- 
cal sketches. As the head of that seminary he was 
indefatigable in his labours, both secular and scien- 
tifick, to promote the benefit of the society. This 
is the language of Dr. Stiles, and to have his com- 
mendation is " laudari a vire laudato." The doc- 
tor says, likewise, that he studied the higher branch- 
es of mathematicks, and was one of the first philos- 
ophers America has produced; "that he was equalled 
by no man, except the most learned professor Win- 
throp." When Dr. Stiles viewed the character of 
his predecessor, it must relate to the time he was 
at the zenidi of his reputation. In his latter days, 
he grew unpopular with the leading characters of 
the state ; and lost the affection of the students at 
the college. It was said he was hard and unyield- 
ing in his temper, opinionated and stiff, as well as 
contracted in his notions ; that he would not suffer 
any improvement in the means of education, and 
that the college, though it had produced many of 
the first characters in the land, did not make that 
progress in literary reputation which it might, be- 
cause he would admit of no alteration in the mode 
of teaching and government, being so much afraid 
of innovation, and determined that every thing 
should remain as it had been. One or more pamphlets 
were written containing pointed remarks ; but how 
easy is it to hurt the reputation of persons by wit 
and satire ! The most eminent men, especially in 
old age, may be wounded by arrows sharp pointed, 
or dipped in venom, when young men are in sport, 
or irritated with or without a cause. 

If those things were true in any measure, Mr. 
Clap differed from his successors. Kven since Dr. 
Stiles was inducted into the office of president. 
they have made many alterations, and increased 
their plans of instruction ; a high reputation has 
been given to this ancient seminary, which has 
thrown a lustre upon its officers. 



116 CLA 

president Clap resigned the chair, 1764, and 
died at Scituate, the next year. 

Clarke Peter, pastor of a church in Danvers, 
Was a profound and learned divine, and an author 
of no small reputation. He was graduated at Har- 
vard College, 1712, and ordained June 5th, 1717 ; 
died June, 1768. Above half a century he preach- 
ed to this people ; he was never taken off from his 
publick labours, till within a few months of his 
death. He applied diligently to his studies, and 
was such a redeemer of time, that every hour when 
he was not in his study, he endeavoured to im- 
prove to the good of others, allowing himself very 
little for his own relaxation* Mr. Barnard of Sa- 
lem, preached his funeral sermon, and observes, 
he Was well acquainted with ancient and modern 
learning. " His style was pure, nervous and clear, 
cool and pathetick, as his subject required ; and by 
means of his conversing much with the best 
inodern authors, more elegant and pleasing to 
the politer world than most of his equals in age. 
His printed works will be evidence of this, which 
iare somewhat numerous upon every public occa- 
sion, and will do his memory honour. 

His controversial writings have been often quot- 
ed by others, who have written on the same side 
of the question. He wrote several books in de- 
fence of original sin,* and in favour of infant bap- 

* This gentleman engaged in the controversy of original sin 
in 1758. What led to it was a pamphlet, called the ^'winter even* 
ing conversation,upon the doctrine of original sin between a min- 
ister and three of hisneiglibours." Mr. Clarke wrote tlie " sum- 
mer morning conversation" in answer to it. This was also by 
way of dialogue. The author of the " winter evening's conver- 
sation replied to Mr. Claike ; and he then wrote a reply in whicli 
he took a large view of the doctrine by the disciples of Calvin — ■ 
Svo. 200 pages. There were other pamphlets published, and 
upon opposite states of the question. Such a controversy was very 
interesting at this time ; but they are little known by the present 
generation. The same subject has been handled by greater nun, 
such as Taylor, and president Edwards. Mr. Clarke preached 
the artillery election sermon, 1736} convention sermon, 1745 ; 
Dudleian lecture sermon, I763i 



CLA 117 

tism. The famous Dr. Gill entered the lists with 
him upon the latter subject. To whom Mr. Clarke 
replied, makini^ some candid observations on his 
severe remarks. They both understood their sub- 
ject. 

Clarke John, D. D. pastor of the first church 
in Boston, was born at Portsmouth, in New- Hamp- 
shire, April 13, 1755; graduated at Harvard College, 
1774 ; and was ordained July 8, 1778, as colleague 
with the late Dr. Chauncy, with whom he lived in 
the most intimate and respectful friendship about 
nine years ; and afterwards continued, assiduously 
and faithfully labouring in the service of the church, 
until the Lord's-day, April 1, 1798; when, in the 
midst of his afternoon sermon, he was suddenly seiz- 
ed with an apoplexy, fell down in the pulpit, and ex- 
pired in less than twelve hours, having almost 
completed the 43d year of his age, and the 20th of 
his ministry. 

Descended from respectable parents, he dis- 
covered in early life the signs of genius and in- 
dustry. At the university, he was distinguished 
by a close attention to classic and philosophic 
studies, by a strict obedience to the laws, and 
by irreproachable morals. In the office of pre- 
ceptor, he was gentle and persuasive, beloved by 
his pupils, and esteemed by their friends. As a 
public preacher, his compositions bore the marks 
of penetration, judgment, perspicuity and ele^ 
gance. Faithful to the interest of religion, he 
deeply examined its foundation and evidence ; and 
persuaded of the truth and importance of the chris- 
tian system, he recommended, by his publick dis- 
courses and private conversation, its sublime doc- 
trines, its wise institutions, and its salutary pre- 
cepts. 

Though fond of polite literature and philosophic 
researches, yet he considered theology as the proper 
science of a gospel minister. To this object he 
principally devoted his time and studies, and was 



118 COB 

earnestly desirous of investigating every branch of 
it, not merely to gratify his own sacred curiosity, 
but that he might impart to his hearers the whole 
counsel of God. He was habitually a close student ; 
and it is not improbable, that the intensencss of his 
mental application proved too severe for the deli- 
cate fabric of his nerves. 

His devotional addresses were copious and fer- 
vent ; and his intercessions strong and affectionate ; 
discovering at once the ardor of his piety, and the 
warmth of his benevolence. In the private offices 
of pastoral friendship, he was truly exemplary and 
engaging. His temper was mild and cheerful ; his 
manners easy and polite ; and the social virtues of 
an honest heart gave a glow to his language, and 
enlivened every circle in which he was conver- 
sant.* 

CoBBET Thomas, pastor of the first church in 
Ipswich, was born, 1608, at Newbury, in England, 
was a pupil of the famous Dr. Twiss, who was 

• This account of Dr. Clarke is in the 6th vol. of Historical 
Collections. It was written by the late Dr. Belknap, who re- 
quested the compiler of this dictionary to undertake it ; but who 
only supplied certain documents, while he preferred to have the 
character of his friend delineated by an abler hand. 

Dr. Clarke was a member of the American academy of arts 
and sciences from the foundation of the society ; also a member 
of the historical society, a trustee of the humane society, one of 
the first founders of the Boston library, a corresponJins^ mem- 
ber of the board of commissioners in Scotland for propagating 
the gospel among the Indians ; and of the Massachusetts socie- 
ty for the like purpose, extending the privileges to others, as 
well as the aboriginals. 

His publications were four sermons. One upon the death of 
N. W. Appleton, an excellent young man, physician of Boston, 
whodied 1795; one upon the death of Dr. Cooper; one upon 
the death of Dr. Chauncy ; a sermon before the humane society, 
1793. An answer to the question, " why are you a christian," 
which has gone through several editions in Boston and London. 
Letters to a student at the university of Cambridge. Since his 
death, a volumt of sermons, upon miscellaneous subjects ; and a 
volume of pennons to yoiing men. Thty are written in an ele- 
gant, neat and correct style, in which he excelled most other wri- 
ters, and are filled with pious sentiments. 



COB 119 

highly esteemed in this country. His works, 
though now scarce, were in high estimation with 
former generations, especially those who were at- 
tached to the doctrines of the Geneva school. Mr. 
Cobbet was sent to Oxford, where he finished his 
studies, and received his master's degree. He 
could not be persuaded to conform to the rites and 
ceremonies of the episcopal church, and on this ac- 
count, being persecuted by the men in power, he 
came over to this American wilderness. Mr. Da- 
venport and Mr. Cobbet came over in the same 
vessel. As soon as he arrived at Boston, he was 
invited to settle with Mr. Whiting, in Lynn, where 
he continued from the year 1637 to 1656. Be- 
ing invited to take charge of the church in Ips- 
wich, lie accepted the call, and there passed the 
rest of his days. He died 1686. It is an evidence 
that he possessed extraordinary qualifications for 
the pastoral office, that he was chosen to succeed 
two such eminent divines as Mr. Norton, and Mr. 
Rogers, one of whom removed to Boston to stand 
in the place of the great Cotton, while the 
other was called to dwell in his everlsting hab- 
itation. Mr. Cobbet found his temporal cir- 
cumstances meliorated by the change in his 
situation;* and he certainly moved in a more 
extensive sphere of usefulness. He excited great 
attention to religion in the people of that town ; was 
fervent in spirit, persevering in duty, while he adorn- 
ed his profession by his example. 

His works which were highly praised in those 
times have not come down to us of this generation ; 
nor do we know whether they were printed in Old 
or New England. He published more books than 

• The town of Lynn, though in a flourishing condition, con- 
ceived themselves unable to support two ministers, except they 
used great economy ; and reduced their salary to £30 a year. 
The year this was voted, the town suffered a loss of £ 300 by 
a disease among their cattle. Dr. Mather observes, that this 
©ught to be considered as a penalty for their parsimonious con- 
duct. 



120 COD 

his contemporaries ; they are described very minute- 
ly in the M^gnaUa. He first wrote a book " upon the 
fifth commandment," then " upon the first," also 
*' upon the second ;" he also printed upon *' tolera- 
tion and the duties of the civil magistrate ;" to these 
tracts he added " a vindication of the government 
of New England against their aspersors,\vho thought 
themselves persecuted by it." He also wrote " a 
defence of infant baptism," which is commended by 
Mr. Norton. 

Of all his books, that upon prayer is said to be 
most excellent ; hence the inscription on the tomb- 
stone, 

Sta Viator ; Thesaurus hie jacet 
THOMAS COBBETUS 

cujus 

Aosti fireces /iote?ilissimas, ac Mores firobaiissirnos^ 

Sies Nov Ans^lus. 

Mirare, si Jiirtatem colas ; 

Sequere, si ftlicitatem ofitcs. 

CoDDiNGTON WiLLiAM, govcmour of Rhodc- 
Island, one of the first planters of Massachus- 
setts, was chosen assistant in Kngland, and came 
over in the Arabella. He was of Lincolnshire. He 
fixed himself at Boston, and was a leading member 
of the first church, and every year chosen assistant ^ 
as the counsellors were then called He sometimes 
was a popular character in Boston ; at other times 
lost his influence. Gov. Winthrop mentions, that 
in the year 1634, they met to choose seven men " to 
divide the town lands, and contrary to expectation 
left out Mr. Coddington, and other of the chief 
men." This however was owing to a democrat- 
ick spirit as Mr. Cotton and gov. Winthrop told 
them. They were afraid that the richer men would 
not give the poorer sort their proportion. Winthrop 
was chosen by one or two votes only and refused to 
serve, " telling the people that he was much griev- 
ed that Boston should be the first who should shake 
off their magistrates, especially Mr. Coddington, 
who had always been so forward for their enlarge- 
mcnt," 



COD 121 

In the controversy with Mrs. Hutchinson, 1637- 8, 
Winthrop and Coddington took diflferent sides, the 
one being inclined to support her pretensions to pi- 
ety, and all her extravagancies of opinion, the oth- 
er joined in the censure passed upon her at her tri- 
al, when the court saw fit to banish her from the co- 
lony. The politicks of our little commonwealth 
were not a little mingled with that spiritual quixot- 
ism which disturbed their tranquillity. Vane, Cod- 
dington, and others, were opposed to Winthrop and 
Dudley. The country people were the friends of 
Winthrop ; the inhabitants of Boston were with 
Vane, whose interest sunk, when the fam'tlists were 
banished. Mr. Coddington would not even sit 
with gov. Winthrop, in the seat provided for the 
magistrates, but went and took his place with the 
deacons, and soon after this, he went to Aquetneck, 
an island in Narraganset. He had a large property 
in Boston, was a merchant of the first character, and 
had been treasurer of the colony. He built the 
first brick house in this metropolis. When the 
people had incorporated themselves as a body poli- 
tick, they chose him governour. He continued in 
this office till the island was incorporated with Pro- 
vidence plantations, seven years after their removal 
from Boston. In 1647, he assisted in forming their 
new constitution, and was chosen governour the 
next year, which office he refused. 

In 1651 "he had a commission from the supreme 
authority in England to be governour of the island, 
pursuant to a power reserved in the patent : but the 
people being jealous the commission might affect 
their lands and liberties as secured to them by the 
patent, he readily laid it down on the first notice 
from England that he might do so ; and for their 
further satisfaction and contentment he, by a writ- 
ing under his hand, obliged himself to make a for- 
mal surrender to all right and title to any of the 
lands more than his proportion, in common with the 
other inhabitants, whenever it should be demand- 
ed." R 



122 COL 

This account is from Mr. Callender's historical 
discourse, who was prejudiced in his favour from 
the sacrifices he made, his zeal to promote their inter- 
ests, especially the general toleration of religious 
opinions, which was allowed in no other part of 
New Kngland, and perhaps, we may extend our ob- 
servation by saying, at that time, no part of Christ- 
endom. 

He retired from publick business a number of 
years after this patriotick exertion, but in his latter 
days was again a candidate for the honours of his 
country. In 1678, he died governour of the colo- 
ny. He was then 78 years of age.* 

The honourable Mr. Coddington who was a ma- 
gistrate of the colony, 1738, and highly esteemed 
for his fidelity and other virtues, was a grandson of 
the first governour. 

Collins John, minister of the gospel, was grad- 
uated at Harvard College, A. D. 1649. He was 
elected fellow of the corporation, and continued. 

He became a celebrated preacher in London, 
having a sweet voice and most affectionate manner 
in the pulpit. He was chaplain to gen. Monk, when 
he marched out of Scotland into England ; was one 
of the lecturers at Pinner's hall, and died Dec. 3d, 
1687, universally lamented.!' 

*On the 24th of March, 1 537,8, the Indian sachems signed the 
deed or grant of Aquetneck, &c. and the English not only paid 
the gratuities, to the sachems, but many more to the inhabitants 
to remove oft", as appears by receipts still extant. 

The settlement began at Pocasset, the east end of the island, 
since called Portsmouth. In 1644, they called it, Isle of Rhodes, 
or Rhode Island. When the island was first incorporated, they 
chose a judge to do justice and judgment and preserve peace. 
This was Mr. Coddington. In 1740, they voted he should be 
called governour. W. Brenton was chosen deputy governour; 
N. Easlon, J. Coggeshall, William Boulston and John Porter 
vere chosen assistants. 

t In the Magnalia, we are told that when Mr. Collins laid sick, 
Mr. Mead prayed so affectionately for him that there hardly was 
a dry eye in the great congregation at Pinner's Hall, where he had 
been a lecturer. Dr. Mather, in allusion to Mr. Collins's scr 



COL 125 

He had a son who was educated for the ministry 
at Utrecht, who was afterwards minister of one of 
the churches in the city of London. 

His publications are a sermon in the morning ex- 
ercises^ upon this question — How are the religious 
of a nation the strength of it ? a sermon, Jude, 3d v. 
a prefatory epistle before Mr. Venning's remains, 
also, one before the treatise of eternal glory ^ written 
by Mr. Mitchel of Cambridge. 

Collins Nathaniel, pastor of the church of 
Middleton, Connecticut, was the younger brother 
of John, both were the sons of deacon Collins of 
Cambridge. The younger brother was graduated, 
1660, and he died, Dec. 28, 1684. 

He united in his character all the qualities of ex- 
emplary piety, extraordinary ingenuity, obliging 
aftability ;" and was a very excellent preacher. 

Ille pius pastor, quo non prsestantior unus 
Qui taciendo docet, qux faciehda docet. 

CoLMAN Benjamin, D. D. minister of the 
church in Brattle street, Boston, was born in Bos- 
ton, 1674. His parents came from London, not 
many years before this excellent son of theirs was 
born. Young Colman received his education at 
Harvard College, was a studious youth, though of 

men in the M. E. says, the nation lueakened by his death., would be 
a geod running title for his funeral sermon. 

Of Nathaniel Collins, that there were more wounds given to 
Connecticut by his death, than Cxsar received in the senate house. 

He says likewise that he should have written some verses up- 
on his death, but he recollected the clause in a certain gentleman's 
tvill,, mentioned by rhuanus, that they should net burden his 
hearse with bad funeral verses ; and because that sacred thing 
verse has been, by the licentious part of mankind, so prostituted, 
that whatever is now offered, becomes suspected. Nevertheless 
the merits of Mr. Collins were such, that his life must be written, 
or at least so much of it as this, that " he deserved highly to have 
his life written." 

The Dr. consoles the colony of Connecticut, lest they should 
be too much depressed by the loss of a faithful minister, with a 
saying whereby the mother of Brasides was comforted. Vir bonus 
est Brasides, et fortis, sed habet mullos Sparta similes. So were 
then living in Connecticut a number of very good preachers ! ! \ 



124 COL 

a very infirm constitution. He was graduated, 1692, 
and commenced preaching, but did not incline to 
settle in the ministry till he gained wisdom by age 
and experience. When he arrived at the age of 21, 
he had a strong inclination to visit the land of his 
fathers, and his friends supposed that he would fix 
his abode in England. He suffered during the pas- 
sage, the voyage being perilous, and the vessel be- 
ing attacked by an enemy, a French privateer, which 
captured them after a severe engagement. Mr. Col- 
man was on the vessel's deck during the fight, and 
received unkind usage from the enemy on account 
of being a protestant priest. When he was in 
France, it was a satisfaction to the grinning multi- 
tude to insult a man, who was an heretick, and 
preached against the pope of Rome. But in every 
place there are humane people, who look with pity 
upon people in distress ; and among christian na- 
tions those who visit the prisoner. They resist the 
spirit of bigotry, and oppose the demon of persecu- 
tion, whether clothed in the garb of the saint, or 
raging with the sword of violence. From having a 
ivisp of straw to lie upon, in the gloomy vaults of 
a prison, Mr. C. received kindness from persons 
he never knew, and who only considered that he 
was a stranger. When there was an exchange of 
prisoners, he went to London, where he had many 
friends. He preached to great acceptance in that 
city, became acquainted with Dr. Bates, Dr. Cala- 
my and Mr. Howe, the most famous ministers among 
the dissenters, and received many marks of their es- 
teem.* He was introduced by them to several 

* Dr. Colman was present with llie London ministers when 
they presented their address of condolence to king WiUiam upon 
the death of tlie queen. Dr. Bates presented it. The composi- 
tion is beavuifid, but when delivered, it had a surprising effect. 
The courtiers said they never saw the king so moved, and con- 
fessed that Ihey never knew the power of eloquence equal to it 
upon themselves. Dr. Colman in his manner of speaking and 
■writing endeavoured to imitate Bates's excellencies. The same 
observation was made of the late Dr. Samuel Coopor concerning- 
liis method of sermonizing. 



COL 125 

churches, and having been so highly recommended, 
they earnestly requested his continuance. His in- 
clination might have led him to stay in Great Bri- 
tain, had he not received a more pressing solicita- 
tion to return to Boston, and take the pastoral charge 
of a new church, which some of the principal inhab- 
itants of the town had then erected. 1 he London 
ministers, with whom he had associated, ordained 
him. the latter part of the year 1699. He arrived 
in Boston the next season, w here he met with a most 
cordial reception from the people of his society. 
There were, however, many hurt by the proceed- 
ings of the society in Brattle street. The church 
was built in opposition to the Cambridge platform. 
Ministers, venerable for their age and wisdom, such 
as Mr. Higginson and Mr. Hubbard, bore their tes- 
timony to the order of the churches, and one of 
them in a letter to Dr. Mather, calls it a '* presbyte- 
rian brat;" nor would any of the churches hold 
communion with Mr. Col man for some years. But 
he continued the faithful, and beloved pastor of this 
flock, until the summer of 1747, and then died at the 
age of 73. As a preacher, he obtained gi"eat celeb- 
rity for his elocution. He had a lively animation 
without much fiery zeal. He allured men, instead 
of driving them into right paths. His manners were 
soft and obliging ; so ready v\ as he to overlook frail- 
ties and praise excellencies in others, that he was 
called a flatterer; but this was owing to his civility 
and good breeding. Polite men are not always 
guilty of simulation, nor duplicity. 

Dr. Colman received a diploma of doctor in di- 
vinity from the university of Glasgow, 1731. He 
was elected president of Harvard College, 1724. 
He was fellow of the corporation during the time, 
that president Leverett, and his successor, were in 
the chair. He was at the head of the clergy after 
the death of Dr. Cotton Mather. One of the best 
discourses he ever published was, an eulogy upon 
that great scholar. They had been long at variance, 



126 COO 

but their friendship was renewed several years be» 
fore Dr. Mather died, and then they wondered how 
they could so long disagree. 

Dr. Colman had an extensive correspondence, 
which he made subservient to useful and benevo- 
lent purposes. He obtained many donations, for 
the Indian missions, from affluent gentlemen in 
London. Through him the Hollis family laid their 
liberal foundations for two professorships at Har- 
vard College. What president Holyoke said of 
him, in an oration pronounced the commencement 
after his death, was considered as correct sentiment 
rather than panegyrick. *' Vita ejus utilissima in 
rebus charitatis, humanitatis, benignitatis, et benefi- 
centiae, nunquam non occupata est." 

Mr. Turell, son in law to Dr. Colman, wrote 
•' memoirs of his life and writings," in an octavo 
volume. His publications are numerous. They 
are upon theological subjects, except one in favour 
of " inoculation for the small pox," in 1721. He 
printed a volume of excellent sermons, upon " the 
parable of the ten virgins," 

Cooke Elisha, physician in the town of Bos- 
ton, was a great politician at the time the charter 
rights of Massachusetts were disputed ; and agent 
of the province, when the charter of William and 
Mary was obtained. He was a popular leader in 
the general court more than 40 years. In 1681 he 
was one of the representatives, who were zealous 
for colonial freedom, and " opposed sending over 
agents, or submitting to acts of trade," &c. In 
1684 he was chosen one of the assistants. When 
Dr. Mather was sent over as agent, and with Mr. 
Cakes signed the petition for a new charter, Mr, 
Cooke refused ; saying, " the old charter or none." 
He was the opposer of all the governours, but the 
pointed enemy of Dudley, and never missed the 
opportunity of speaking against his measures, or 
declaring his disapprobation of the man. On the 
other hand, Dudley negatived him as often as he 



coo 127 

was chosen into the council, till the year 1175, when 
he approved of his election ; the same year, one was 
deprived of the government, and the other died. 
Mr. Cooke was this year 78 years old. Hutchinson. 
Cooke Elisha, son of the former agent, early 
bent his mind to politicks, which enabled him to 
lead the debates in the house of representatives. 
Before the arrival of gov. Shute he was not distin- 
guished as the head of a party. He was a popular 
man in the town of Boston, had been one of their 
representatives to the general court, and was chos- 
en a counsellor; he had the clerkship of the supreme 
court, which Shute took from him ; and from that 
time he was his open enemy. He commenced a 
most violent attack upon his administration, and 
the next year was set aside from the couneil. There 
had always been two parties in the general court. 
Those who were old chartermen ; and the governour's 
friends. The former had all the democratick spirit 
of ancient times, and were called the patriots of that 
day. They rested the ground of their opposition 
against the governour on his application for a fixed 
salary. Upon this Shute insisted, according to 
his instructions. And here Mr. Cooke directed his 
lethalis arundo^ till he wounded the side of the 
chief magistrate, and made him quit his place. 
He went to England to make his complaints against 
the province ; but would never return, though he 
was offered the government again, and justified in 
all his proceedings, Mr. Cooke was sent to the 
court of Great Britain as agent for the people of 
Massachusetts, but failed in his application, and ob- 
tained little of that respect and honour which he 
had in his own country. He returned to Boston, 
1726. At the next election he was appointed 
counsellor. He was on the side of the controver- 
sy, which opposed gov. Burnet, but not so violent 
as in former days, when his political resentment was 
stimulated by personal feelings. He was the warm 
friend of Beleher, who went over to the popular par» 



128 COO 

ty before Burnet died. And when he was in the 
chah-, appointed his friend a judge of the common 
pleas. He died in the year 1737. Mr. Hutchin- 
son, though the great friend to Dudley, Burnet, and 
other governours on the side of prerogative, uni- 
formly gives praise to the Cookes. He says, they 
were both fair, honest men, open in their conduct, 
and acted from a love to their country. It is some 
credit to him as an historian, that he should delin- 
eate so fairly the characters of men who certainly 
were the most zealous republicans, who ever acted 
their parts in Massachusetts bay. 

Cooper William, pastor of the church in 
Brattle street, Boston, was one of the most fervent 
preachers of the age. In the character given of him, 
by a brother minister, he was " an interpreter, one 
among a thousand." He was graduated at Harvard 
College, 1712. In the year 1715, began to preach, 
and was invited to settle ascolleague pastor with Dr. 
Colman. At his request, his ordination was defer- 
red a year. But on May 23, 1716, he was separat- 
ed to the work of the ministry ; and continued to 
preach to this society with increasing vigour, zeal 
and activity, till his death, Nov. 13, 1743. He was 
then in the 50th year of his age. It is said, that ho 
had an uncommon talent at explaining and enforc- 
ing the sublimest truths of the gospel, and making 
them familiar to the meanest capacity. When Dr. 
Colman preached, the people went away highly gra- 
tified, talked oi the excellencies of the discourse, 
and of his charming delivery. But when his col- 
league had performed the pulpit exercises, he had 
such a way of addressing the heart, and giving a so- 
lemnity to their spirits, that each man had a look of 
concern, and went home silent as the grave. Death, 
judgment, and eternity, were the subjects of his 
preaching. 

His character as a learned man was very respect- 
:«ble. In the year 1737, he was chosen president of 
Harvard College, which honourable trust he declin- 



coo 129 

ed accepting, in a letter addressed to the ovcr^ 
seers.* Colman''s funeral sermon. 

Cooper Samuel, D. D. one of the most cele- 
brated divines and politicians of >Jew England, was 
the son of the rev. William Cooper ; and his suc- 
cessor at Brattle street church. 

When he was young he discovered genius and 
taste, and was a fine classical scholar before he en- 
tered college. At the seat of the muses he com- 
posed in poetry and prose in a style beyond his 
years. He had charming oratorical powers, which 
he displayed on several occasions before the publick. 
As his memory was very tenacious he could at any 
time repeat the orations he then delivered ; the 
style was rather Virgilian than an imitation of the 
Roman orator. Horace and Virgil were his favour- 
ite authors of the ancient classicks ; Addison and 
Atterbury of latter days. When his father died he 
was deeply affected ; he lost his companion and 
friend at the time he most needed advice and di- 
rection. He was graduated at Harvard College, 
1743, the year this melancholy event took place. 
The eyes of the people were fixed on him to take 
the pastoral care of the church in Brattle street. 
Dr. Colman was so earnest to have him for a col- 

• Works. — Four sermons upon predestination, which were 
reprinted in London, 1765. Another edition has been lately 
emitted from the press of E, Lincoln, Boston. 

In 1723, Dr. Colman and Mr. C, printed two sermons to young 
people ; in 1736, Mr. C printed a sermon at the ordination of the 
rev, Robert Breck, which gave rise to a large controversy between 
him and certain ministers in the county of Hampshire. They 
printed a '^ narrative of the proceedings of the council ;'* an '< an- 
swer to the Hampshire narrative" was printed in Boston. They 
published " a reply to this answer," impute it to Mr. Cooper, and 
make severe remarks upon his conduct. Mr. Cooper engaged 
in another controversy with Mr. Ashley afterwards on account of 
a sermon he preached upon charity. The newspapers were fill- 
ed with this dispute for some months, besides the numerous pam- 
phlets it occasioned. The other publications of Mr C. are a 
sermon upon the death of gov. Tailor, one upon the death of rev. 
Peter Thacher, 1739, and two sermons upon the revival of reli- 
gion, 1741. 



130 COO 

league, that he urged hhii to preach at tliis tender 
age, and before he hud read those books of theology 
whieh are thought necessary for preparatory stu- 
dies. He gave up his own inclinations to the 
pressing solicitations of his friends, but requested 
the same indulgence they had granted to his father^ 
that his ordination might be deferred for some time. 
This request was complied with. He preached oc- 
casionally, but was not ordained till May 25, 1746. 
His venerable colleague delivered a discourse upon 
this occasion, and performed one part of the day, till 
he was called to receive the reward of his labours. 
He then dropped his mantle for the benefit of the 
younger prophet. Mr. Cooper had from this time 
the care of a church which was very large, and had 
been wisely instructed by great and learned divines, 
who had "the gift and art of preaching;'^ but he did 
not frustrate the expectations of the people. He 
appeared like the rising light, shining more and 
more unto his meridian splendor. The same beau- 
ties of style, engaging delivery, and devotional spir- 
it, which they admired in their aged pastor, drew 
their attention, and allured their affection to Mr. 
Cooper. His diction was more chaste and correct, 
and his gift in prayer peculiar, and very excellent. 
With a great flow of language, he had an admirable 
facility of mingling scriptural phrases in their pro- 
per places. 

His religious sentiments were liberal, and he was 
a friend to free inquiry. In discoursing upon reli- 
gious topics in conversation he discovered the same 
elegance and propriety of speech which distinguish- 
ed his pulpit exercises. He had fine colloquial 
talents and would have made a great figure in speak- 
ing extempore had he used himself to it in a pub- 
lick assembly. His erudition was rather extensive 
than deep, but his ready mind, fine brilliant imagi- 
nation, and quickness of recollection enabled him 
to shine in company where greater scholars, and 
much more profound theologians, listened to heai 



coo ISl 

liim, to whom, however, he would give up an opin- 
ion, when they thought it not correct. If in any 
thing he was obstinate in iiis-own sentiments it was 
upon the politicks of the day. His eulogist hand- 
somely describes this part of his chitracter so that 
no one can object to his becoming a politician. 
*' He well knew that tyranny opposes itself to reli- 
gious as well as civil liberty ; and being among the 
first who perceived the injustice and ruinous ten- 
dency of the British court, which at length obliged 
the Americans to defend their rights with the sword, 
this reverend patriot was among the first who took 
an early and decided part in the politicks of his 
country.^' 

He was, however, a political writer earUer in life 
than any threatening of British thraldom. In the 
year 1754, he wrote the Crisis, a pamphlet against 
the excise act, which our general court contemplat- 
ed. He certainly was at all times a leading charac- 
ter among the American whigs. And from the 
time of the stamp act to the revolutionary war, some 
of the best political pieces in the Boston Gazette 
were the effusions of liis pen. The letters from gov. 
Hutchinson to Whately which were printed in Bos- 
ton were sent to Dr. Cooper; whether by Dr. 
Franklin or Mr. Temple is not ascertained. They 
were put into his hands to read, to communicate to 
certain friends, but under a strict injunction not to 
have them published. They were published by a 
gentleman to whom they were communicated upon 
his promise of returning them " uncopied." The 
Doctor was not to blame, and was much grieved at 
the consequences of the publication, which were a 
duel between Mr. Whately and Mr. Temple, and 
loss of the oflSice of postmaster- general to Dr. 
Franklin. Mr. Temple was never satisfied with 
the apology of Dr. Cooper for what he thought a 
breach of confidence. 

In the spring of 1775, Dr. Cooper, with other 
patriots, was lampooned by the British officers in an 



1S2 COO 

oration pronounced in State street. He afterwards 
met with insults, and it was happy for him that he 
left the town before Lexington battle, as he was ve- 
ry obnoxious to the authority then in Boston. He 
was a warm friend to the independence of his coun- 
try, 1776 ; and joined heartily in promoting the al- 
liance with France. " The great friendship sub- 
sisting between him. Dr. Franklin and Mr. Adams 
was one means of his being known in France ; and 
the gentlemen coming from that kingdom were ge- 
nerally recommended to him by those ambassadors. 
When the fleets of his most Christian Majesty 
adorned our harbours, he was always the confiden- 
tial friend of the gentlemen who commanded ; and 
many officers and subjects of that august monarch 
were received by him with great cordiality that was 
pleasing, and highly endeared him to them."* It 
is true that he was much devoted to the French go- 
vernment, more so, than was agreeable to his pious 
friends, and several, who had been his political 
friends, blamed him for his sans:uine views of their 
friendship. Franklin, though a great philosopher, 
was not so great a statesman as the other gentlemen 
who made the peace in 1783. They saw through 
the policy of the French court, and prevented the 
interests of the New England states from being sac- 
riiiced. 

Dr. Cooper was a member of several societies, 
for pious and literary purposes ; he promoted them 
with all his influence. For a number of years he 
was fellow of Harvard College. In the year 1774, 
he was chosen president. He was the first vice 
president of the American academy of arts and sci- 
ences, instituted by the general court of Massachu* 
setts, 1780. His diploma of doctor in divinity was 
presented by the university of Edinburgh. 

He enjoyed his vigour of mind, his activity, and 
his cheerfulness till he was seized with his last ill- 

* Character wriUtn by James Sullivan, esq. 



COT 13$ 

ness ; this was an apoplectick turn, which continued 
only a few days. He expired, Dec. 23, 1783.* Dr. 
Clarke preached a sermon at his funeral. 

Cotton John, was born at Derby, A. D. 1684. 
His parents were persons of considerable quality 
and good reputation. Their condition, as to the 
good things of this life, competent. They were 
wise enough to employ their means to good pur- 
poses ; and educated their son so as to make himi 
eminent and useful. Their solicitude for this ten- 
der plant was well rewarded when they saw him, 
like a tree of life, feeding thousands with the doc- 
trines of Christianity ; and to them also the fruit of 
his lips was sweet. 

After leaving the grammar-school at Derby, he 
was admitted to Trinity College, Cambridge. His 
industry was great, and his proficiency uncommon. 
From Trinity he was admitted to Emanuel, where 
he was soon made a Fellovj. When he was elected, 
he was strictly examined. The portion of scrip- 
ture, chosen to prove his knowledge of the Hebrew 
tongue, contains more hard words than any other 
in the Bible, Isaiah iii. Wherein the prophet de- 
claims against the haughtiness of the daughter of 
Zion. But so good an Hebrewician could not be at 
a stand ; it rather gave him an opportunity to show 
his ability and attention to that language. Being 
thus advanced, he was in a place for improvement ; 
he was surrounded with characters, who were prop- 
er objects of emulation ; the glow of genius appear- 
ed in his manner of giving and receiving instruc- 
tion, and all his powers and faculties were quicken- 
ed to attempt a resemblance of those who had the 

♦ His publications, besides those abovementioned, are, artillery 
election sermon, 1751 ; sermon before the society for encourag*- 
ing industry, lf53 ; election sermon, 1756 ; sermon at the ordi- 
nation of Joseph Jackson, 1760 ; thanksgiving sermon on the con- 
quest of Quebec. 1759 ; sermon on the death of George II. 
1761 ; at the Dudleian lecture, 1774 ; a sermon before the gener- 
al court, October, 1780, being the day of the commencement of 
the constitution and inaueuration of the new government. 



134 COT 

highest reputations for erudition. He soon ren- 
dered himself famous by his funeral oration for Dr. 
Some, Master of Peter- House, Cambridge. In this, 
he discovered a purity of style with the ornaments 
ofrhetorick. The fame of his learning increased 
from his next publick performance, which was a 
University sermon, and he was often invited to 
preach in the same place. When he had been at 
Boston, in Lincolnshire, some months, he proceeded 
bachelor of divinity, and preached a Concio ad Cle- 
rum^ in Latin, which was greatly admired. His 
text was Mat. v. 15. He appeared also to great ad- 
vantage in answering a very acute opponent, Mr. 
William Chappel, who disputed with him. 

For several years he preached to his people with- 
out any opposition, but when he urged his dislike 
of the ceremonies, he was brought before the court 
of the bishop of Lincoln for his non- conformity ; 
from which he was advised to appeal to a higher 
court, and employing Mr. Leverett (who was af- 
terwards one of the ruling elders in the church of 
Boston, New- England) he was, through his means, 
restored to his church, v/ho had much occasion to 
rejoice in his labours. He was so much in favour 
with Dr. Williams, the bishop of Lincoln, that 
when he was Lord Keeper of the great seal, he went 
to King James, and begged that a man of so much 
worth and learning might have liberty of preaching 
without interruption, though hewas a non- conform- 
ist. 

The earl of Dorchester, also, being at old Bos- 
ton, was much affected when he heard him deliver 
a discourse upon civil government, and stood his 
friend in times of great opposition. These are the 
times to try and prove friendship. From men of 
tirbanity and good nature the civilities of social life 
are readily granted ; but how few among the rich 
men of the city, and nobles of a kingdom, think of 
virtue in distress ! There were some, however, a- 
mong the gentlemen and noblemen in England, 



COT 135 

who exerted themselves to serve worthy Puritan 
ministers, and kept them from prison and from pen- 
ury, while bigots ruled the nation, and the vilest 
aspersions were cast upon all those who were sus- 
pected of non-conformity. 

Mr. Cotton was not able to stem the tide of party. 
He was ordered before the high commission court, 
who were disposed to pour out the bitterness of 
their wrath upon his head ; but they were disap- 
pointed of their aim, and, through the influence of 
those who were well disposed, he escaped and came 
to New- England. It was observed, that he did not 
fly from the profession of the truth, but unto a more 
opportune place for the profession of it. 

When Mr. Cotton came over to this country, 
they were busy in settling the afiliirs of the churches 
and commonwealth. In both of which he took an 
active part. Being requested to preach before the 
general court, his text was Haggai ii. 4. " Yet 
now be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord ; and 
be strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech the high 
priest ; and be strong, all ye people of the land, saith 
the Lord, and work ; for I am with you, saith the 
Lord of hosts." 

It was a usual thing for the magistrates to consult 
with the ministers, and Mr. Cotton was appointed, 
with gov. VVinthrop, to draw an abstract of the ^"/a* 
dicial laws of the Mosaick system, so far as they are 
moral. It was his advice to establish a Theocracy. 

Mr. Cotton began the sabbath on Saturday even- 
ing. He gave religious instructions, read the 
scriptures, and then retired into his study. He 
spent the sabbath day either in his study or in the 
pulpit. He was a very accomplished preacher ; his 
voice had melody in it, and was sonorous ; his ser- 
mons pathetick, and his critical acumen uncom- 
mon. This was discovered in his frequent expo- 
sitions, and dissertations upon passages and whole 
books of the scripture. He was considered as a 
great polemick divine ; yet upon two occasions^ 



136 COT 

when his talents were exerted this way, he was un» 
der no small disadvantage. In his controversy with 
Roger Williams, he had an opponent who not only 
possessed talents which would have made him great 
in any school, but had bent tJie force of his strong 
mind to the very subject which then employed 
their attention. In England, Mr. Cotton had writ- 
ten in favour of toleration, and against the power 
of the magistrate in matters of religion. Here he 
had to oppose the sentiment he had formerly de- 
fended, and to write against the principles which 
the dissenting ministers in England then thought 
evangelical, and have, ever since, supported ; and 
which are necessary to vindicate their separation. 

He was accused of holding a bloody tenet by 
Williams, and the title of his answer was, T^he 
Bloody Tenet ijjashed in the Blood of the Lamb 

In the general commotion of the country concern- 
ing the Antinomian sentiments, our celebrated di- 
vine lost much of the dignity of his character, and 
his influence in the churches. He did not go to 
the extreme which would please his friends ; 
some of them compared him to a light in a dark 
lantern. The other side were bitter in their ani- 
madversions upon his conduct. At the synod, in 
1637, he had to oppose the whole body of minis- 
ters, and some of them were disposed to vex him. 
Once he became so unhappy as to threaten to leave 
the plantation. The latter part of his ministry was 
less irksome. He enjoyed some years of rest after 
being tossed on the troubled sea. His labours were 
edifying to the people ; his abilities and character 
were equally respected by the magistrates and his 
clerical brethren, who all lamented his death when 
he was sixty- eight years old, and mourned for the 
loss which the country as well as his people had sus- 
tained. He died Dec. 23, 1652. His disorder was 
of a pulmonary nature, owing to his passing a ferry 
and getting wet, and then preaching in a neigh- 
bouring church. He was seized while he was de- 



COT 137 

livcring the sermon, and was never afterwards free 
from the complaint ; yet he continued to labour^ 
and a few weeks before his death he took for hi^ 
subject the four last verses in 2d epibtle to Timo- 
thy ; giving- as a reason why he chose several vers- 
es, that he should not live to finish them if he were 
more particular. He dwelt chiefly upon these words, 
Grace beivithyou all. When he could preach no 
longer, he was visited by his pious friends, to whom 
he administered consolation and good instruction. 
He died in peace, and the last words he uttered 
were pious and benevolent wishes to a friend who 
was endeavouring to soften the pillow of death ; 
and which caused others to say of him, that he was 
a good ma?i, and full of the Holy Ghost. 

Mr. Cotton married twice, and left a number of 
children. His descendants have spread over the 
country, and though no one has appeared equal to 
him in a rich variety of learning alid popular talents^ 
yet several of them have been eminent as preachers, 
and among the civilians of our country. He pub- 
lished many works ; some in Latin. These were 
printed in London, and they have since been re- 
printed in New- Kngland. Among them we find 
milk for babes y and meat Jor strong men, accord- 
ing to their power of digesting the spiritual food. 

Some difference has appeared in the opinions ex- 
pressed of this celebrated man. It has been sug- 
gested, that his character was blazoned beyond its 
merit ; for his biographers were Mr. Norton, his 
friend, who succeeded him as teacher of the old 
church, and Cotton Mather, his grandson. But his 
character was high before he came to this country. 
We have taken our account from books which were 
not published by any near relation, nor by men who 
were much prejudiced in his favour. His learn- 
ing was allowed by all his contemporaries ; his pi- 
ety and zeal none could doubt, for he sacrificed his 
ease, his interest, and his country, to enjoy the or- 
dinances of religion. His candid spirit was not ajL° 



138 C R A 

ways in exercise. In the phrenzy of liis imagina- 
tion he blamed worthy men, and censured those 
who had great claim to his respect and affection ; 
yet governour Winthrop, one opposite in sentiment 
upon politicks and religion, says of him, that he de- 
livered himself in a gentle manner upon a subject 
which interested his feelings, and though he cen- 
sures his opinions, speaks with respect of the man. 
Others, as strong in their own sentiments, allow 
him candour and forbearance. 

In those instances where he discovered intolerance 
and the spirit of bigotry, a zeal for ecclesiastical 
power, he only manifested the inconsistency of hu- 
man nature. It is a true observation, that when 
men begin to taste of christian liberty themselves, 
they forget that other men have an equal title to en- 
joy it. 

Such flagrant instances of inconsistency are so 
evident among christians, of all denominations, that 
it cannot be imputed as a reproach peculiar to any 
sect. Instead of disturbing the ashes otour ancestors, 
by repeating that the " very men who had fled from 
persecution became persecutors." we had better 
imitate their virtues, throw a mantle over their fail- 
ings, let instruction spring from their graves, and 
hope to meet them in that better world where just 
men are made perfect. 

Cradock Matthew, one of the principal un- 
dertakers of the New- England settlements, was an 
opulent merchant in London ; they first chose him 
their governour, May 23, 1628 ; but afterwards they 
determined to choose into office only those, who 
went to America, with the patent. Therefore he re- 
signed the place to Mr. Winthrop. *' He was more 
forward in advancing out of his substance than any 
other, being the highest in all subscriptions. He 
continued, divers years, to carry on a trade in the 
colony, by his servants, but never visited the plan- 
tation." Miuchinson, 



G U S 159 

CftANFiELD Edward, governour of New Hamp- 
shire, was an English gentleman and received his 
commission, 1682. He exchanged a profitable of- 
fice at home to better his fortune in New- England. 
As soon as he came over, he exercised his power in 
an arbitrary manner, and acted the same part in that 
province which sir Edmund Andross did in Massa- 
chusetts. 

He came to Boston the year after his appoint- 
ment, and pretended a regard to the colony, but 
led them into measures which hurried the second 
warrant against their charter. He represented to 
the court of Massachusetts, that 2000 guineas to be 
given to lord Hyde, " for his majesty's private ser- 
vice," would be of great advantage to the province, 
and afterwards made sport of their credulity, and 
his own artifice and deception. In a letter which 
Dudley wrote to gov. Bradstreet, he tells him, 
" Truly, sir, we are ridiculed, by our best friends, 
for the shame Cranfield put upon you. His majes- 
ty told my friend, that he represented us as disloy- 
al rogues." 

In New Hampshire, Cranfield assumed so much 
power, that the publick grievances became insup- 
portable. They chose an agent to make their com- 
plaints at the court of Great Britain. In the mean 
whilethe governourwas atalosshowto raise money 
for himself and the necessary publick expences. He 
called an assembly in 1682, and the same year dis- 
solved them. He then ventured upon a project of 
taxing the people without their consent. But he 
found " all his efforts ineffectual, and his authority 
contemptible." The complaint was taken up by 
the lords of trade, and decided against him. He 
lost the government after enjoying a kind of honour 
a few years without the profits he had calculated up- 
on ; and was glad afterwards to be appointed col- 
lector of Barbadoes. Belknap. Hutchinson, 

Gushing Thomas, speaker of the house of re- 
presentatives, 1746, was the son of the hon. Tho- 



140 C U S 

mas Gushing:, one of his majesty's council. The 
father was among the New England worthies, and 
the son as much celebrated for his goodness as his 
superior abilities. Mr. Prince speaks of him, as a 
man of excellent acquired gifts and natural under- 
standing, well acquainted ^^ ith affairs of the world, 
with men and things, with our civil and ecclesiastical 
constitution, with human nature and divinity. " My 
acquaintance," says he, "began with the table con- 
versation. 1 found, with surprise and pleasure, that 
in a small feebie, relaxed body, there dwelt a great, 
a lively, a strong and well composed soul. Our en- 
tertainments were an agreeable variety of divinity, 
history, civil and religious matters, or natural phi- 
losophy ; or observations on present occurrences 
and transactions, either in town or land, or other 
parts of the world ; as various subjects happened to 
occur, with a candid freedom ; his genius inclining 
him either to unbiassed reasoning, or agreeable ob- 
servations " 

rhis excellent man was born in Boston. 1693 ; was 
graduated at Harvard College, 1714. He acquired 
con-idcrable property, beside what he received from 
his fatlier, to whose business he succeeded. He very 
soon distinguished himself, as one of the best speakers 
in the town meeting ; and in 1729, was one of their 
committee to draw up the instructions for their re- 
presentatives. In 1731 he was chosen representa- 
tive for the town, and continued in this office as 
long as he lived. During Belcher's administration, 
when the town saw fit to change three of their re- 
presentatives, he. was the one who claimed their re- 
spect, and all the votes were in his favour He once 
was elected treasurer of the province, which trust 
he could not accept on account of the multiplicity of 
his other business. In 1 739 he was appointed agent of 
the province to the court of Great Britain, but his in- 
firm state of health prevented him from taking the 
voyage. He was speaker of the house of represen- 
tatives, A, D. 1742, and was chosen annually till hr 



C U S 141 

died, 1746, in the 53d year of his age. The loss 
was felt by the publick, as he was in the midst of his 
usefulness. Mr. Gushing married a d^^ughtcr of 
the hon. Edward Bromfield, and left two daughters 
and one son.* 

Gushing THOMAs,lieuti go vernourcf Massachu- 
setts, was the son of Mr. speaker Gushing, and rose 
to higher offices in the state than his father or grand- 
father, each of ^^hom had been distinguished with 
peculiar honours. He had good talents, ai'd was a 
very useful man in many departments, thoui^h he 
had not their splendid abilities. He was gradiiated 
at Harvard College, 1744; engaged in meicantile 
business, but his mind was tuir.td nmch to political 
aftairs. The father enjoyed the afiluence of wealth 
withaM the honours hi., country could besrovv upon 
him : the son was fonder of publick liie, and j>aid 
too little attention to pecuniary considerations. He 
was sent rcpresentatative from his native town for a 
number of years, and, A. D. 1763, when the gov- 
ernour negatived Mr. Otis, who had been chosen 
speaker, he was elected in his place ; and he con- 
thmed to fill the chair, till he was chosen one of the 
members of the congress which met at Philadelphia, 
1774. He was then commissary general, but the 
province was in such a state, that there was no great 
call for a person in this office, nor did any material 
profit attend it. In 1779 Mr. Gushing declined go- 
ing to Gongress ; and the government of Massa- 

• Mr. Bromfield, the father of Mrs. Cusliing, according to Mt*. 
Prince, was one oi" the distinguished worttiies of New England, 
whose names will appear in cnaracfers of honour in the annals 
of our church and state. His son, t.. Bromfield, esq. who died, 
175 6, was one of the Boston representatives, 1739. He was on 
the popular side when the prejudices of the town were so strong 
against gov. Belcher. In the house he acted in concert with 
Gushing, Allen, 8cc. " the firm, uncorrupted patriot, careful to 
assert the just prerogative of the crown, and to defend the invai- 
uahle liberties of the people." He was for many years selectman 
and overseer of the poor, which offices he discliartjed. He was 
a gentleman in high esteem, while he lived, and his death wa? 
^.eatly lamented. 



14S C U S 

chiisetts being then organized, he was elected to the 
second office in the state. He was lieut. governour 
from the time he was chosen till his death. 1788. 

There was a time when Mr. C. was considered 
in Great Britain as the leader of the whigs in this 
country. He was not esteemed so in Boston. He 
had less political zeal than Otis, or Adams, or Han- 
cock ; but by his pleasant temper, his moderation, 
his conversing with men of different parties, though 
he sometimes Was lashed by their strokes for want 
of firmness, he obtained more influence than either, 
except Mr. Hancock. The reason of his being 
known so much in the mother country was, that his 
name was signed to all the publick papers, as speak- 
er of the house. Hence he was sometimes exposed 
to the sarcasms of the ministerial writers. In the 
pamphlet of Dr. Johnson, called, " Taxation no 
Tyranny," one object of the Americans is said to be. 

to adorn the brows of Mr. C -g with a diadem." 

He had a rank among the patriots, as a sincere friend 
to the publick good, and he was also a friend to re- 
ligion, which he manifested by a constant attendance 
iipon all pious institutions. He was also very at- 
tentive to the affairs of the college, an example to 
others of the overseers, being often chairman of 
committees, and always present at the board ; he 
was also fellow of the corporation from the year 
1785, in which Mr. Bowdoin resigned. He re- 
ceived a diploma of doctor of laws from the univer- 
sity. 

Mr. Gushing left a number of children ; one of 
his daughters married John Avery, esq. who for 
inany years was secretary of the commonwealth.* 

* Mr, Avery was {graduated at Harvard College, 1759 ; succeed- 
ed Samuel Adams as secretary, 1780, and died, June, 1806. He 
was secretary of tl>e Massachusetts Humane Society. He was 
buried on the day of their semi annual meetins^. Their orator, 
in the midst of his discouise, alludes to the funeral knell which 
then called them lo p ly their respects to their worthy officer, an 
*'early, active and important member of the society." 



CUS i43 

CusHMAN Robert, one of the original planters 
of New England, was a member of Mr. Robinson's 
church at Leyden. He was chosen agent, with Mr. 
Carver, to treat with the Virginia company, when 
our fathers had fixed their purpose to make a settle- 
ment in North America. The object of their mis- 
sion was to obtain certain privileges, if they lived 
in the British dominions, especially the rights of 
conscience. They met with great discouragements, 
and did not succeed. The next year he was sent 
upon the same business with Mr. Bradford. A let- 
ter from Mr. Cushman, May 8. 1619, represents 
the affairs of the Virginia company as being in great 
confusion. It was on account of introducinq; Ed- 
ward Sandy m the place of secretary, in the room of 
sir Thomas Smith, of whom there is a minute ac- 
count in Smith's history of Virginia. In autumn 
of this same year the Leyden agents procured a pa- 
tent, confirmed by the company's seal. When these 
religious adventurers set sail, Mr. Cushman was in 
the smaller vessel, which proved leaky and was con- 
demned, but afterwards he sailed for New England 
in the ship Fortune and arrived at Plymouth, Nov. 
10, 1621. He returned to England, and died in the 
year 1626. The news of his death reached the new 
settlement at the same time they heard of the loss of 
their venerable pastor, Mr. Robinson. Among the 
bitter ingredients mingled in their cup, they sor- 
rowed most of all, that they should see their faces 
no more.^ 

* A sermon of .Mr. Cushman which he preachefl to the Ply- 
mouth setlltis upon self-love, was printed in England, 1622, and 
reprinted in Boston, 1724. Another edition of it was printed in 
Plymouth, 1785. Memoirs of Mr. Cushman are annexed, 
handsomely written by judge Davis, who was then an inhabitant 
oi that town. This account makes one of the lives in the Ameri- 
can Biography. The dedication of this sermon is curious. It is. 
To his loving friends the adventurers for New England, together 
with all well-willersand well-wishes thereunto, ^-rcce, peace, &c. 
He describes New England, " as an island, about the quantity oi 
England, being cut out of the main land in America, as England 
is of Europe." A parliamentary speaker, in 1774, speaks of the 
island of New England, 



144 CUT 

Cutler Timothy, rector of Yale College and 
minister of Christ Church, Boston, was gradu- 
ated at Harvard CoUea^e, 1701 ; was ordained 
at Stratford, (Conn.) 1710, according to the or- 
der of the New Kngland churches. He was ap- 
pointed rector of the college in New Haven, 1719, 
which was, as has been said, an auspicious event to 
that institution, for he was a man of profound 
learning and presided with dignity, usefulness and 
general approbation. In 1723, he conformed to the 
church of hngland. Being joined by several of the 
tutors and neighbouring clergy, and himself the 
first scholar in the colony, it was a great shock to 
the congregational establishment. A church was 
built for him in Boston of which he was rector from 
1723 to 1765, the year of his death. He did not 
publish any thing except a few single sermons. His 
powers were rather solid than brilliant, and he was 
too much of a scholar to allow any thing superficial 
to come from his hand. It was in this language he 
spake of most publications ; those which were writ- 
ten by ministers of the episcopal church, and those 
whose sentiments and mode of worship might pro- 
voke sarcastick remarks. He was haughty and 
overbearing in his manners ; and to a stranger, in 
the pulpit, appeared as a man fraught with pride. 
He never could win the rising generation, because 
he found it so difficult to be condescending : nor 
had he intimates of his own age and flock. But 
people of every denomination looked upon him with 
a kind of veneration, and his extensive learning ex- 
cited esteem and respect where there was nothing 
to move, or hold the affections of the heart. 

Dr. Stiles calls him the greatest oriental scholar 
after Thomas Thacher^ the first minister of the Old 
South, and the great president Chauncy. No man 
in New England, he tells us, had such knowledge 
of the rector and those gentleman. All which may 
be true. Wc have sufficient documents to show 
that they understood Hebrew, and no one who re- 



DAN 145 

collects Dr. Cutler will doubt of his being " well 
skilled in logick, metaphysicks, moral philosophy, 
theoloGcv and ecclesiastical hibtorv." 

His diploma of doctor in divinity, was presented 
to him when he was in England. His correspon- 
dence with other doctors or with bishops, was never 
carried on with so much zeal, spirit and persever- 
ance as we find mentioned m the biographical sketch- 
es of his brethren ; nor do we read of any produc- 
tion of his, among the controversies between epis- 
copalians and dissenters, during his long ministry. 
Yet they all looked up to him as a father, and he 
certainly was more eminent as a scholar than those 
who served their cause by their writings. 

Mr. Hooper of Trinity church preached the fu« 
neral discourse and gave the character of this dis- 
tinguished missionary of their church, with much 
justice and his usual eloquence, 

D A N FOR T H ! H o M As,deputy governour of Massa- 
chusetts Bav, was elected a magistrate in 1659* 
From this year he was assistant till 1679, when Mr. 
Bradstreei being put into the chair, he succeeded 
him as deputy. He had a great share of duty upoii 
hmi, and with resolution and firmness conducted 
the publick affairs in the most difficult times. 
Mr Hutchinson, speaking of three parties during 
sir Kdmund Andross's administration and the times 
preceding, says, " tlu head of those on the side of 
royalty were Dudley, btoughton, &c. Mr Brad- 
street, the governour. by the voice of the people, was 
the head of the moderate party. Danforth led the 
opposition, assisted by Cooke " Though he con- 
ducted with prudence he would yield no privilege 
which the charter gave them. Hence he was ob- 
noxious to Randolph, Andross, and to the ministry 
of Great Britain . For the same reason he was the 
idol of the populace in New England. He acted as 
president of the council when the people took the 
government from Andross, and had it not been for 
his influence; they would have gone to greater ex^ 

u 



146 DAN 

travagancies. The extracts of his letters which are 
preserved show that he had prudence and wisdom 
in conducting measures, though he was fierce in 
opposition to arbitrary mandates. When the officers 
oF the old government were restored to their places, 
Mr. Bradstreet was again governour and Mr. Dan- 
forth the deputy.* '1 hey held their offices till the 
charter of William and Mary arrived. He was then 
deprived of his place, and his name was not suffi-T- 
ed to remain as one of the counsellors, ahhough the 
agents expressed a particular desire to have it. The 
people received the intelligence with surprise and 
grief; but it was easy for politicians to account for 
the omission, as he was against receiving any other 
charter than that which the fathers of Massachusetts 
held sacred. We hear nothing more of him in 
publick life. He passed his days in the town of 
Cambridge, His only son, Samuel, who died in 
England, was graduated 1771; was fellow of Har- 
vard College, and a fine scholar. The name of 
Danforth in another line is preserved, and few 
names have exhibited more literary characters. 
Mather. Hutchinson. 

Danforth Samuel, minister of Roxbury, came 
into New England, l£34, with his father, Nathaniel 
Danforth, was graduated at Harvard College, 16483 
was chosen a fellow of the corporation, and instruct- 
ed a class ; he was very respectable for his knowl- 
edge of the sciences and theology. Being invited to 

* The ancient magistrates and elders, although they strenu- 
ously advised to further waiting for orders from England, and 
discouraged any attempts of that nature, " as far as they had op- 
portunity, yet were they now compelled to assist with their pre- 
sence and councils for the preventing of bloodshed, which had 
been most certamly the issue, if prudent councils had not been 
^iven to both parties." Danforth'' s letter to agent Mather. 

When Mr. Danforth was appointed deputy governour, he had 
likewise another commission, president of the province of Maine, 
to govern under the Massachusetts.the lords proprietories,and to 
be accountable to them ; thither he repaired, 1 779, appointed offi- 
cers, held courts, &c. In that station also he opposed Andross's 
usurpation. 



DAN 147 

settle colleague pastor with Mr. Eliot at Roxbury, 
he was ordained, 1650. He died, 1674, in the midst 
of his life and usefulness. Dr. Mather says he wrote 
as a scholar, yet " was very affectionate in his man- 
ner of preaching, and seldom left the pulpit without 
tears." He married the daughter of Mr. Wilson, 
the first minister of Boston, and was blessed with 
twelve children, some of whom died before him. 
Two of his sons were distinguished among the di- 
vines of this state. One of Dorchester, and the 
other was settled at Taunton. One of his daughters 
married the hon. Mr. Bromfield, of Boston.* 



* When Mr. D. died, old Mr. Eliot wrote verses and Mr. 
Weld likewise. It was then very common. The Dorchester 
burial ground is famous for the epitaphs on gravestones, many 
of which were written by Mr. D. the minister of that town. 
If we regard the spirit rather than the metre, we might be edified 
by reading them. But lest the rising generation should " play 
with the beard of their tathers," which tlie author of the Mag- 
nalia says is a wicked thing, it is best that most of them should 
be buried with the mouldering stone. A Latin epitaph upon the 
Roxbury divine may excite pleasure with remarks. 
Non dubium, quin eo iverit, quo stellae eunt 
Danforthus^ qui stellis semper se associavit. 

This epitaph alludes to the studies of Mr. D. " Several of his 
astronomical composures have seen the light of the sun," says 
Dr. Mather. He published a particular account of the comet, 
1664. He observed the motions of it, " from its first appearance 
in Corvus, whence it crossed the tropick of Capricorn, till it ar- 
rived at the maintop sail of the ship, and then it returned through 
Canis Major, and again crossed the tropick of Capricorn," 8cc. 
There is no theological publication of his, except we consider 
his election sermon as such, which is a recognition of J\ew Eng' 
land's errand into the wilderness. It was delivered 1670. 

The rev. Samuel Danforth, of Taunton, was born, 1666 ; gradu- 
ated, 1683; died, 1727. He preached the election sermon, 17 U. 

The rev. John Danforth was born, 1664 ; graduated, 1677 ; or- 
dained, at Dorchester, 1682 ; died 1730. « He understood math- 
ematicks ; had a taste for poetry and various learning." His 
printed works are, a sermon on parting with friends ; a sermon 
on contentment ; a sermon on Rom. i. 21, 1710 ; a funeral ser- 
mon on Mr. Bromfield ; two sermons on the earthquake, 1727 i 
a fast Sermon, Exod. ix, 33, 34. 

The hon. Samuel DanJorth of Cambridge was the son of Mr. 
Danforth of Dorchester, He was president of his majesty's 



D A V 

Davenport John, minister of the first church 
in Boston, died suddenly of an apoplexy, March 15j 
1670. He was a celebrated divine in England as 
well as this new region oi the earth, where he lived 
from the year 1637 to the time of his removal to a 
better world. 

Dr. Mather quotes a saying of the learned, con- 
cerning Salmasius, and applies it to him, Vir nun- 
qiiam satis laudatics, nee temere sine laiide nomi' 
nandiis.'''' 

He was born, A. D. 1597, at a place called Co- 
ventry. His parents were respectable and gave him 
a good education. At the age of fourteen he was a 
student of Brazen Nose College, Oxford, where he 
received a degree of B. A. and though a youth> im- 
mediately began to preach. He preached constant- 
ly in the city of London in the time of the plague, 
and visited his flock as a faithful minister, which 
gained him great credit among those who knew 
how to estimate worth that was then as rare, as it 
was pure. For what can prayers signify, if a minis- 
ter does not mingle offices of humanity with his pi- 
ous walk ; this gives a perfume to the sacrifice. 
He afterwards received the degrees of A. M. and 
bachelor of divinity. 

About the year 1626, there was a plan devised to 
make a purchase of impropriations, and with the 
profits of the same to maintain a number of minis- 
ters who would assist in reforming abuses. Mr. 
Davenport was in connexion with Dr. Sibs, Dr. 
Gouge, and several laymen ^ one of whom was lord 
mayor of London. But archbishop Laud took um- 
brage at it, as favouring nonconformity and obtain- 
ed a bill to be exhibited in the exchequer chamber^ 
when the court condemned the proceedings, and 
pronounced the gifts, feoffments and contrivances to 
be illegal ; and confiscated the money to the king's 
use. 

council several years. In 1774, he was appointed one of the 
mandamus council. He died 1777. apjcd 81. He was said to bf 
?. sjrcat natural philosopher and chynriist. 



D A V U$ 

Soon after this Mr. D. became so much of a non= 
conformist, as to be an object of publick notice, and 
in consequence of it, he resigned his pastoral office 
in Colman street, and passed over into Holland. 
This was about the end of the year 1633. 

He soon opened a controversy Avith the Dutch di- 
vines upon the subject of baptism, and tried to in- 
troduce the practice which he wrote so much in fa- 
vour of afterwards, and which has been a controver- 
sy in New England ever since he came into the 
country, viz. " Whether the children of communi- 
cants only should be admitted to the ordinance?" 

He went back again to England, 1G35. He was 
one of those by whom the patent of the Massachu- 
setts colony was made out, though his name was 
not among the patentees. He did this before he 
went to Holland, and there hearing of the progress 
and prosperity of New England, he resolved to come 
over and make a settlement, which he did, being 
considered as one of the fathers of New Haven colo- 
ny. 

He arrived at Boston, 1637, with Mr. Hopknis^ 
two London merchants, and several other worthies, 
who did not incline to settle within the jurisdiction 
of Massachusetts. They were oflfered any spot they 
might fix upon, and urged to unite with the people 
of this colony, but they v/ere disposed to form a 
new plantation. Mr. Davenport was, however, in- 
vited to sit with the synod at Cambridge. And Dr, 
Mather tells us, his learning and wisdom did con- 
tribute more than a little to dispel the mist of errors 
which then overspread the country. While he was 
minister of New Haven, ne was invited to join the 
Westminster Assembly with Mr. Cotton and Mr. 
Hooker, and he had an inclination to cross the At- 
lantick, but the other gentlemen did not suppose it 
would answer any special purpose, or thought less 
of the honour ; nor were his church willing to part 
with him. It certainly was more proper for him to 
lead the few sheep in this American -vilderness. 



150 D A V 

than to display his gifts amidst so much wisdom, as 
was collected in that part of the kingdom. If he 
had gone to FLngland he might have been as zealous 
as Hugh Peters, who went over as agent for Massa- 
chusetts about this time. In this country he acted a 
part which made him almost as obnoxious to Charles 
11. He concealed two of the regicides in his own 
house, and instigated the people of that government 
by his publick preaching,* to protect these unfortu- 
nate men, and not suffer the king's commissioners 
to execute their purpose. 

Mr. Davenport was threatened with the vengeance 
of regal authority for concealing traitors, and had 
reason to dread the conaequences of his democrat- 
ick zeal, mingled as it was with motives of humani- 
ty. Upon this gen. Whaley and Goffc offered to 
surrender, and appeared publickly in several places. 
It is supposed they would have done this rather 
than Mr. D. should suffer on their account. But 
"U'hen he was no longer exposed to any particular 
danger, and the commissioners had manifested their 
resentment otherwise, they again concealed them- 
selves. 

In 1667, Mr. D. left the people at New Haven 
and came to Boston to succeed Mr. Norton, the min- 
ister of the first church. This caused great grief to 
his own people, and divided the Boston church. 
Dr. Mather quotes an observation that " it is ill 
transplanting a tree that thrives in the soil." He 
might have said that a tree should never be trans- 
planted which has past its growth. It will die be- 
fore it will \ ield much fruit, however rich the soil 
in which it is fixed. His making this exchange of 

• " About the time the pursuers came to New Haven, or a 
little before, and to prepare the minds of the people for their re- 
ception, Mr, Davenport preached publicklv from this text, Isaiah, 
xvi. 3, 4. Take counsel, execute judgment, make thy shadow as 
the night in the midst of the noon day, bewray not him that wan- 
dereth ; let mine outcasts dwell with thee. Moab, be thou a 
covert lor them, from the face of the spoiler. This doubtless had 
its efTecl," ki\ Stiles*s history of the judges. 



DIX 151 

situation was unhappy for himself as well as the 
churches. It was too late in life to form new con- 
nexions ; and to leave old friends, whose hearts had 
been tried by many scenes of adversity, was a wound 
to his own sensibility, especially as they were hurt 
by his conduct. 

He died, March 15, 1770, of an apoplexy, aged 
72 years.* Magnalia, 

Denison Danikl, major general, was an in- 
habitant of the town of Ipswich. He was the au- 
thor of a treatise called the Irenicon. " His parts 
and abilities were well known amongst those with 
whom he lived, and might justly place him among 
the first three, having indeed many natural advan- 
tages above others for tlie more easy attaining of 
skill in every science." Mr. Hubbard, from whom 
this quotation is made, says concerning the Irenicoriy 
which was found among his papers *' that it would 
be ingratitude to withhold it from the publickview." 
It might suit other times. 1st. It takes into con- 
sideration the publick maladies. 2d. The occa- 
sion of them. 3d. The danger. 4thly. The blame- 
able causes. 5thly. The cure. He died Sept. 
20, 1682.t 

DixwELL John, of New Haven, was one of the 
Regicides, and after the restoration of Charles 2d, 

• Works. — The saint's anchor hold, a book recommended by 
Mr. Caryl and Mr. Hook ; demonstration of Jesus Christ to be 
the true Messiah; election sermon. 1669; a ti'eatise of the pow- 
er of Congregational churches ; a discourse upon civil govern- 
ment, in a new plantation, whose end is rehgion. .\ volume of. 
sermons upon the Canticles was transcribed for the press but ne- 
ver published. 

t The funeral discourse by Mr. H. minister of Ipswich, is 
from Isaiah, 3 cliap. 3 first verses. To which is annexed Ireni- 
con, or a " salve for New England's sore, penned by the said 
major general, and left behind him as his farewell and last advice 
to his friends of the Massachusetts." 

Mr. Denison pastor of the church in Ipswich died 1679, 
What relation he bore to the general I have never been able to 
know, nor when he came into this country. His name is not in 
the College catalogue and the church records are lost. 



1S2 D I X 

came over into America. lie went to Hanaw iu 
the first place, and was made a Burgess, but in 
1664, he visited Whalley and Goffe at Hadley. He 
went the same year to New Haven and tliere he 
resided till his death. 

Though he took the name of John Davids, yet he 
was known to many.; but they were his friends, and 
would not betray him. It is supposed that Ran- 
dolph had some suspicion of it, and communicated 
the thought to sir E. Andross. For that govern- 
our once stopped at New Haven on the Sabbath, 
and attended Mr. Pierpont's meeting. Dixwell 
was there in the morning, but did not appear in the 
afternoon. Sir Kdmund asked who that venerable 
old man was ? and was told he was a merchant of 
such a name ; he replied, *' that he knew he was 
not a merchant, and became very inquisitive about 
him."* Col. Dixwell was an officer, who received 
a commission from the parliament, and was too 
much of a republican to bow the knee to Cromwell. 
When he sat among the judges, it was rather by 
persuasion, than his own wish to condemn the mon- 
arch. He died in New Haven, March 18, 1688, in 
the 82d year of his age. His son took the name of 
John Dixwell, was one of the founders of the church 
in North-street, and chosen deacon, afterwards of- 
ficiated as ruling member. He died 1721. His 
posterity are chiefly in the female line, but the name 
is not extinct. — Ludlow, Stiles. 

* There is a story told wuch is somewhat characteristick, of 
New England. When sir Kdmund attended worship, the deacon 
read a psalm which offended him very much, as he thought it 
pointed. The first verse is, 

Why dost thou tyrant, boast abroad. 

Thy wicked works to praise ; 

Dost lliou not know there Is a God 

Whose mercies lead always ? 
They told sir Edmund. \.\\\k{ it was a psalm in course, but Dr. 
Stiles thinks if they read psalms in cor.rse, it is likely the deacon 
selected this to touch the feelings of the governour. A question 
arises concerning the fact ; whether they sung the psalms of 
Sternhold and Hopkins at that time in New-England? They did 
not in Msssachusetts or the Old Colony. The psalm is 5 2d of 
ihcir version. 



DOU J53 

Douglass William, M. D. a native of Scot- 
land, came into America when he was a young 
man, fixed himself in the porth part of Boston, and 
was a writer upoji politicks, historical occurrences, 
and medicine. When Dr. Mather communicated 
to him the success of Timonius in inoculating for 
the small pox, he treated the account with contempt, 
though recorded in the transactions of the Royal So- 
ciety of London. When Dr. Boylston, in the year 
1721, inoculated many of the inhabitants of Boston, 
and met with the greatest success, he still raved a- 
gainst Timonius and Mather, as well as this brother 
physician. He was a man of great learning, but 
wanted judgment and taste; whatever he published 
was in a very slovenly style. He wrote many po- 
litical essays, in the newspapers, which were gener- 
ally filled with s>arcastick remarks upon the magis- 
trates, the clergy, the physicians, and the people of 
New England. His ^'summary," or "historical 
account of the British settlements," was published 
in 1748, and 1753. This is a collection of things 
which came into his head, whether they related to 
his family, his private squabbles, or tlie affairs of 
the publick. He would not take pains to arrange 
his materials, or to inform himself of particular 
facts. He was so opinionated that he never 
would correct his mistakes. When Cape Breton 
was taken, it frustrated many of his printed de- 
clarations. He had ridiculed it, bectiuse it was a 
measure of Shirley's administration, and called that 
place the Dunkirk^ which such forces would 
never dare to assail. But though the plan succeeded, 
it did not make any difference in his views. In- 
stead of having his pride wounded, he, porcupine 
like, wrapped himself in his own down, and darted 
his quills at others. He said he was right in his 
conjectures, but fortune would always wait upon 
blunderers and quacks ! 

Douglass was a mathematician ; in 1743, 44, he 
published an almanack, which was useful at the^ 
W 



154 DOW 

time, and is now valuable for its list of cbronologi- 
cal events ; and also the account of all the sove- 
reigns of Europe and their families. It was called 
" Mercurius Novan'glicanus," by William Nadir, 
S. X. Q. He also published a dissertation upon 
*' the Cynanche Maligna," when that disorder pre- 
vailed in the town, in 1735, 36.* 

Downing George, one of the first class of 
graduates, at Harvard College, wasa preacher among 
the Independents in England, during the usurpation 
of Oliver Cromu'ell. He was chaplain to col. 
Okey's regiment, whom he afterwards betrayed to 
recommend himself to the court of Charles 2d 

He was ready to serve any master that would em- 
ploy him, and to commit any act of treachery for the 
sake of a reward. The protector sent him as his 
agent into Holland, and gave him this recommen- 
dation, "George Downing is a person of eminent 
quality, and after a long trial of his fidelity, probity, 
and diligence in various negotiations, well approved 
and valued by us. Him we have thought fit to 
send to your lordships," Sec. 

He was sent likewise by Charles IL as his agent 
or ambassador to the states, and received the hon- 
our of knighthood from his majesty. Here he laid 
a scheme to seize several of the regicides, at the 
same time declaring he had no commission to do it, 
and that they were in perfect safety. Ludlow speaks 
of it as a thing more flagitious in the Dutch nation^ 
than in this renegado politician. For they were un- 
der no obligation to deliver them up, and had pro- 
mised to protect them. About the year 1672 
Downing met with some reverse of fortune. The 
king vvas displeased with him, and put him in pri- 

* Dr. Douglass abuses Cotton Mather very frequently; one 
thing in particular he tells makes him an object of ridicule. The 
Doctor had said, " that cats may have the small p;ix,'' or a disor- 
der like it. Now says Douglass this is weak beyond description, 
because " the small pox is peculiar to mankind." Ought not 
some writer of the present day to give Cotton Mathpr due tredjt. 
How is it that cows have the small pox ? 



DUD 155 

ion. It is said that he was confined in the same 
room where col. Okey had been kept before his exe- 
cution, once his friend and benefactor, but whose 
death must bring to his conscience accusations of 
every crime a treacherous courtier could commit. 
He was again received into flivour by Charles, and 
conducted himself with more prudence and mode- 
ration than he had done in former times. Ludlow, 
and others, who had expressed their surprise that 
George Downing should succeed, such a man as sir 
William Temple, ambassador to the states, yet 
allow that he did some things well. And Hutchin- 
son says, that he was a friend to New England, and 
did every thing in his power to serve this country, 
when many enemies were active in exciting the re- 
sentment of the king against it. He was brother in 
law of gov. Bradstreet, and held a correspondence 
with him, and other gentlemen in Massachusetts. 
He died in the year 1684. 

Dudley Thomas, one of the first settlers of 
Massachusetts, who came over in the Arabella, was 
the only son of capt. Roger Dudley. In 1 597 he 
was at the siege of Amiens, under Henry IV, hav- 
ing a captain's commission irom Queen Elizabeth. 
Mr. Hutchinson says, he became a sober noncon- 
formist from hearing Dodd, Hildersham, and other 
puritan divines He certainly was a zealous man in 
whatever he undertook as appears from Winthrop's 
journal; and upon some occasions he discovered ve- 
ry warm passions. That he was a very prudent man 
appears, however, from his gpod conduct in the 
management of the estate of the earl of Northamp- 
ton, which was com.mitted to his care. He sat un- 
der Mr. Cotton's ministry, before the planting of 
Massachusetts. When he came over in the Ara- 
bella, he was 54 years old, but his strength of body, 
and health of mind, fitted him for any hardships. 
The company in England chose Mr. Winthrop 
governour and Mr. Humphries deputy governour 
of the plantation. Mr. Humphries did not embark 



DUD 

as was expected, and Mr. Dudley was chose ti in 
his place. In 1634, he was chosen governonr, and 
also several times afterwards. He was the second 
in authority seven or eight years, sometimes under 
Winthrop, and once under r ndicot He was ap- 
pointed major general in 1644 ; this was a new of- 
fice in the plantation. He was continued in the magis- 
tracy from the time of his arrival to his death, which 
happened, July Slst^ 1653, in the 77th year of his 
age. , 

He was Upright and honest in his disposition, 
blunt in his manners, and withstood magistrates 
and ministers when he thought them worthy of re- 
proof. Nor would he yield to any popular opinion 
to gain honour and authority. A serious dispute 
took place between him and governour Winthrop, 
"which required the interposition of their friends 
among the clergy and laity. He was more firm in 
the Hutchinsonian, or Aniimoni'dn controversy, than 
any of the magistrates, and even accused Mr. Cot- 
ton of departing from the faith ; and without preju- 
dice or attachment from prior connexions, required 
an explanation of his principles and conduct. En- 
dicot also found him an opponent that was not to 
be moved when /le dissented from the general opin- 
ion of the magistrates, or wished to introduce some 
novel things in their proceedings. Mr. Dudley was 
not a man of learning equal to Winthrop or Belling- 
ham, but in this respect was not inferior 4:o Endicot. 
iMeither Endicot nor Dudley possessed what, in the 
present age, would-be called liberality of sentiment, 
or urbanity of manners. Mr. D was such an ene- 
m\ to toleration that he not only spoke against it, but 
left a number of lines which the friends of rational 
religion must wish he had never written, as they are 
not to the credit of his poetry or his charity, but 
being written, and handed down, are quoted to give 
a just view of the character of the man : 

Let men of God, in courts and churches ^^atch 
O'er such as do a toleration hatch : 



DUD 157 

Lest that ill eg?^ bring forth a cockatrice 
To poison all with heresy and vice. 
If men be left, and otherwise combine, 
My epitaph's, I die no lihtrtine. 

Dudley Joseph, son of T. Dudley the veteran 
tiiagistrate of Massachtisctts, was educated at riar- 
Vard College, and received the honours of that se- 
minary, A. D. 1665.* 

He was early made a magistrate, and supposed to 
be on the side of loyalists, who were willing to give 
up some charter privileges. It is evident that he 
loved the principles and practices of the New Eng- 
land planters, though to keep his place he often saC'- 
rificed those, and was subservient to men in power. 
Randolph in one letter speaks of him as a maa 
<* opposed to the faction." At other times, he calls 
him a " man of a base, servile, and antimonarchical 
principle." In 1686 several gentlemen of the coun- 
cil were appointed to take the administration of the 
government of Massachusetts; Mr. Dudley received 
a commission as president. The year before, he had 
been left out of the magistracy, having rendered him- 
self unpopular by some acts which were thought 
pleasing to the enemies of New Kngland. His 
short administration was not grievous to the people. 
They had expected Kirk to be appointed gover.^ 
nour, and were disposed, from dread of his coming, 
to receive any other man with apparent cordiality. 
Mr. Dudley, says Hutchinson, considered himself 
as appointed to preserve the affairs of the colony 
from confusion until the governourarrived, anda rule 
of administration should be more fully established. 

When sir Edmund Andross was appointed gover- 
nour of the several colonies, Dudley was president 
of the council, also chief justice of the province. 
He was upon the circuit at Narraganset when An- 
dross was made prisoner, and was seized at Provi* 

• He is second in the class, Benjamin l-.liot, son of the apostle 
Eliot, being first. As they placed the students according to their 
parentage, why was not the son of a govcrnour the first ? 



158 DUD 

»3ence as one of the govcrnour's party. For some 
time he was confined to his house at Roxburv. He 
nas more obnoxious than any other person, aiui was 
treated even with inhumanity daring his imprison- 
ment, reviled by the very soldiers that guarded him, 
and deprived of the very necessaries of life. He 
had been so conversant with Andross and Randolph, 
that he was ranked with them as an enemy to the 
country, and the resentment was raised the higher 
because he was born in New England ; that Vv'hich 
they could bear from a stranger, they thought in- 
sufferable from an inhabitant of the country. By 
the 02-der of king William, he embarked for Eng- 
land in February, 1689. He was the next year ap- 
pointed chief justice of New York ; but his proper- 
ty, his friends, and his heart were in Massachusetts. 
It was said, he made use of all his influence to in- 
jure gov. Phips, expecting to succeed him in the 
government if he could be provoked to leave it. 
Tor this purpose he went to England, paid court to 
his majesty's ministers, and was patronized by no- 
blemen of name and character. The agents oppos- 
ed the appointment, and obtained their wish, which 
v/as to have lord Bellamont sent over. Dudley was 
not popular enough at New York to have any de- 
sire to go there, nor were the emoluments of a place 
on the bench very alluring. He preferred to be 
lieut. governour of the isle of White, lord Cutts be- 
ing the governour, a nobleman who had inter- 
ested himself very much in his favour. "When lord 
Bellamont died, in 1701, he again solicited for the 
government of Massachusetts. He was then mem- 
ber of piirliament, and lieut. governour of the isle of 
White, a more splendid, as well as more easy con- 
dition, than any office in New England ; but he had 
such ''• a passion for his native country, as would 
have done honour to the ancient Athenians" — sir 
Henry Ashurst opposed the appointment. The dis- 
senters iii England, and even Cotton Mather, in 
New England, joined in promoting his interest an.d 



DUD 159 

reputation. He came over in 1702, and was received 
with tokens of respect by men who had always been 
his political opponents, and some ol them his per- 
sonal enemic^i. He, however, maintained the side 
of the prerogative ; he had, therefore, in opposition 
to him most of the friends of the old charter, and 
some whose ideas did not glide with the popu- 
lar stream, were filled with zeal against his ad- 
administration. The first seven years were spent in 
debates with the house of representatives, or in pri- 
vate disputes with men who ceased not to accuse 
him of artifice and deception ; of arbitrary conduct ; 
of enmity even to those privileges which they had 
obtained by the new charter. Dr. Increase and 
Dr. Cotton Mather, wrote him severe letters of re- 
proof, which he answered, copies of which are pre- 
served.* He had many friends, however, who 
considered him as a great friend to the churches of 
New England, as well as an excellent governour, 
among them were president Leverett, Mr. Brattle, 
and Dr. Colman, who were fellows of the college, 
to which seminary gov. Dudley ever manifested a 
very warm attachment. 

The last years of his administration were more 
tranquil, and when his interest and ambition were 
not thwarted by the opposite party, his polite and 
engaging deportment, his love for his country, his 
eminent abilities, and very extensive information, 
made him a prominent character among the very first 
men of that generation. He was succeeded by gov. 
Shute, 1716, and died, 1720, aged 73. 

Dudley Paul, F. R. S. chief justice of Massa- 
chusetts, was the son of gov. Joseph Dudley. He 
was born at Roxbury, 1673, graduated at Harvard 
College, 1690 ; and having read law some years in 
Xhis country was sent to England to finish his stu- 
dies at the Temple. In 1702, he came over to 
Massachusetts with a commission from the queen, 
as attorney general, which office he held till he was 

• Vide Historical Collection, vol. iii. 



160 DUD 

appointed judge of the superiour court. When he 
•was a youni^ man he was zealous on the side of pre- 
rogative, and acted with those who endeavoured to 
abridge the privileges of the colony. Hence he was 
very unpopular on this side the water, and provok- 
ed the resentment of many who had looked with 
candour on his father's proceedings, as well as those 
who had always been in opposition to his measures. 
Some very severe charges are made against him by 
Dr. Increase Mather, whose friendship to the gover- 
nour had been once of service to him. Mr. 
Dudley, however, grew in the esteem of the people. 
He conducted so well in the line of his profession, 
and in every station, that whatever might have been 
his sentiments when he was in England, he was re« 
garded as one who loved his country, and was ac- 
tive in serving its interest and prosperity. He was 
chosen representative to the general court for his 
native town, and was promoted to a seat at the coun- 
cil board. He appeared to great advantage in each 
situation, but it was on the bench he shone with the 
greatest lustre, *' Here he displayed his admirable 
talents, his quick apprehension, his uncommon 
strength of memory, and extensive knowledge ; and 
at the same time his great abhorrence of vice, to- 
gether with that impartial justice which neither re- 
spected the rich, nor countenanced the poor man in 
his cause. 'J hus while with pure hands and an up- 
right heart he administered justice in his circuit 
through the province, he gained the general esteem 
and veneration of the people. As his presence al- 
ways commanded respect, so it might justly be said 
of him, that he scattered iniquity with his eyes, 
which struck with awe the most daring olFenders. 
When he spoke, it was with such authority and pe- 
culiar energy of expression, as never failed to com- 
mand attention, and deeply impress the minds of 
all who heard him ; and his sentiments of law and 
evidence in all cases before the court, had generaU 
Jy a determining weight with those who were 



DUD 161 

charged with the trial of them."* He was first ad- 
vanced to the supreme bench in 1718, and whea 
judge Lyndes died he was appointed chiet justice. 
Judge Dudley was one of the few Americans who 
have been honoured by an election to the royal so- 
ciety of London. He wrote several ingenious pie- 
ces relative to the natural history of New England, 
which were published in '* their philosophical trans- 
actions, 1720, 1721." He was also a very learn- 
ed theologian, and wrote a book upon " the mer- 
chandize of souls," being an exposition of certain 
passages in the book of Revelations. In the latter 
part of his life he became a puritan of the straitest 
sect of the fathers of Massachusetts. By his will 
he established a lecture at Harvard College, and 
specified four subjects : First, " upon natural reli- 
gion ;" second, " upon revealed religion ;" third, 
""upon the corruptions of the church of Rome;" 
fourth, *' upon the validity of Presbyterian ordina- 
tion." He died the last week in January, 1751. 

Dudley William, Esq. was the youngest son 
of gov. Joseph Dudley, and educated at Harvard 
College. Having received the honours of that se- 
minary in 1704, he applied himself to the study of 
law, but did not incline to enter upoti the business 
of his profession. In a retired spot of the town of 
Roxbury he built an elegant house, and cultivated 
his farm. He soon became a candidate, however, 
for publick honours. His father sent him to Cana- 
da to negotiate an exchange of prisoners. Among 
those whom he brought away was the venerable Mr. 
AVilliams of Deerfield, who had been captured with 
his family, some of whom never returned It was 
said, young Dudley managed the business with no 
small address, and by his manner of negotiating 
kept the frontiers from being pillaged. This was 
doubtless the policy of his father, but he gained 
credit by the execution. Charlevoix speaks of the 

* Character by judge Sewal, who succeeded him as chief jus- 
tice. 

X 



162 DUD 

whole negotiation as a piece of politicul intrigue. 
He says the Massachusetts government had no 
no design of coming to a treaty. Mr. Dudley was 
afterwards appointed justice of the common pleas 
and col. of the first regiment in Suffolk. He was 
also a representative for Koxbury in the general 
court. He always had great influence in a publick 
asi^embly, being an admirable speaker, and possess- 
ing strong intellectual powers as well as a brilliant 
fancy. The opposition to his father's administra- 
tion felt the weight of his talents. He could ren- 
der himself very popular, and was for several years 
speaker of the house of representatives. In 1729 
he was chosen one of his majesty's council, and was 
very serviceable to the community. Douglass says 
that he was more acquainted with provincial affairs 
than any other man, especially that he understood 
landed property better. 

Col. Dudley dibtinguished himself as a military 
character. He was an active officer in the expedi- 
tion which was so successful against Port Royal, 
and deserved the promotion which he received in 
succeeding years. But he was called off the stage 
in tJie midst of his usefulness, and with all his hon- 
ours thick upon him. He died, August 10, 1743, 
before his elder brother. His children possessed 
the fine estate which had always belonged to the 
family. Judge Dudley leaving no children, it came 
into possession of col. William's eldest son, being 
thus entailed to the first male heir. He had two 
sons, Thomas and William ; their mother was the 
amiable daughter of Addington Davenport, judge of 
the superiour court, and one of his majesty's coun- 
cil. Thomas Vv-as graduated at Cambridge, 1750, 
and William the year succeeding. The younger, 
having no prospect of wealth, was educated for the 
bar. He brought the property into some dispute, 
and procured a certain part of the inheritance. 

These brothers acted differently from what might 
be expected from their education, and the exam- 



D U M lt)l 

pies they had to sthnulate them. They were very 
unlike their ancetitors. Instead of preserving the 
honour and dignity of a family which had been iU 
lustrious for more than a hundred years, they seem- 
ed to prefer the manners of ordinary life, and very 
soon were mingled with the people who make up 
the common mass of human society. Hutchmson<, 
Prrcate information. 

DuMMER UicHARD, oue of the fathers of Massa- 
chusetts, came into the country, 1635, and was 
chosen a magistrate. He warmly espoused the 
cause of sir Henry Vane, and when that gentleman 
was left out of the government he was no longer 
chosen assistant. He left the town of Boston, and 
retired to his own estate in Newbury, where he liv- 
ed many years highly respected. No man deserved 
more the praise of doing well. He was very rich, 
and equally benevolent. When gov. Winthrop lost 
such immense property by the fraudulent conduct 
of his bailiff, Mr. i^ummer gave 100 pounds towards 
making up his loss. He contributed greatly to the 
improvement and growth of that part of Newbury 
where he dwelt. The lands upon which the acade- 
my is built, and were left for the support of this lite- 
rary institution, were formerly his plantation. He 
left children, some of whom passed their lives on 
the estate he possessed. One son came to Boston, 
was a worthy magistrate of the county of Suffolk, 
and the fiither of the famous Jeremy Dummer, the 
province agent at the court of Great Britain. Hutch, 
Dummer JERtMV, was born in Boston, and in 
1699 was graduated at Harvard College, and de- 
signed for the ministry. The president of the col- 
lege, when he was student, was the celebrated Dr. 
I. Mather, who declares in a preface to a publica- 
tion of Mr. Dummer's, that when he left college, 
he was by far the best scholar that had been there ; 
which his succeeding reputation evinced to be a just 
encomium. 

His reputation was as high at the university of 



164 D U M 

Leydcn, as it was at Harvard College. JVits'ius was 
professor of theology when Mr. D. was a student 
there This professor spake of the accomplish- 
ments of Mr. i-'ummer, and gave his opinion that 
he would be useful to the churches, as he was so 
eminent for his knowledge in divinity as well as phi- 
losophy. The university presented him with a de- 
gree of doctor philobophiue, which answers to A. 
M. in other sennnaries. 

It appears evident that he had a preference for 
Europe, and perhaps intended to settle as a minis- 
ter in some part ol I -ngland Whether he was so 
popular as a preacher, as he was exctllent for his 
scholarship, is doubtful. Dr. M says he did not 
meet with encouraii;ement to settle in this country, 
and laments that, for w^ant of it, he was constrained 
to go away. 

While he was in England he turned his mind ta 
jurisprudence and politicks^ and wrote, in defence of 
the New England charters, an admirable pamphlet, 
when their privileges were threatened. He was in- 
defatigable in serving the interests of the colonies^^ 
being well qualified by his knowledge, prudence 
and zeal, as well as by his influence which was con- 
siderable, and which he acquired by an intimate ac- 
quaintance with many of the best characters, and 
some of the most brilliant luminaries of the English 
nation. He was chosen agent for the province, 
1710, when sir William Ashurst declined to serve. 
Contrary to the expectation of his countrymen and 
constituents, he devoted himself to the persons in 
power, was employed by lord Bolingbroke in cer- 
tain secret negotiations, and had assurances of pro- 
motion to a place of honour and profit ; but the 
death of the queen blasted all his hopes. His ac- 
quaintance with that profligate nobleman not only 
banished all his religious sentiments, but lessened 
the efi'ect of his moral principles. He was guilty of 
much artifice and deception in hispublick concerns, 
^nd run to excess of licentious manners. His pri- 



D U M 165 

vate diary, kept in his youth, shows that he was 
influenced by pious sentiments in every action ; 
he is the humble suppliant at the divine mercy 
seat, and everv thing wicked touches with horror the 
devout sensibility of his heart ! — It was not without 
pain, that he overcome the impressions of his edu- 
cation ; he often struggled against their influence. 
He could only bring his views to a state of forlorn 
scepticism, and was never able to fix his mind in in- 
fidelity. Amidst scenes of dissipation, he had some 
reflections which prevented him from enjoying what 
commonly ghes delight to the sons of men, and con- 
fessed to a friend that he wished to feel what he 
once experienced, when he was a pious man in New 
England, without any great expectations, and had no 
other desire than to settle in tlie ministry of the gos- 
pel. His sentiments on political subjects were al- 
ways very correct, and he was through all the chang- 
es of life a steady consistent friend of his country. 
But he had not always the happiness to please his 
constituents, though he speaks of having mens 
conscia recti for his support. 

In 1721 he was dismissed from the agency, the 
very year in which he wrote in defence oj the chart- 
er, it was sufficient to ruin his popularity that he 
was friendly to the governour. In one of his let- 
ters, he thus speaks : 

*^ I expect no thanks from the assembly for this 
service, as 1 had none for the counterfeit bills sent 
over last spring, though I thought it an important 
service. It is a hard fate, when 1 am doing the 
province and the gentlemen in it all the honour and 
justice in my power, that some persons in the low- 
er house should take equal pains to lessen and ex- 
pose me. I wish they may not prejudice your minds 
in the end by it No matter what becomes of me." 
He was afterwards employed occasionally in the bu- 
siness of the province. He was disgusted that they 
put no more confidence in him, for even while they 
held his abilities eminent, the general court of 



im D y M 

Massachusetts appointed others to act with him, 
whose opinions were more democratick, and who 
were more faithful to their party than to the truth. 
This great man died in 1739, at Plastow, May, 3d 
week. His publications have gone through seve- 
ral editions. They are extremely well written. 

In 1704 he printed a sermon " upon the holiness of 
the sabbath.''^ In a latin dissertation printed when 
he was in Holland, certain expressions dropped 
which made some think him an Antisabbatarian,but 
in this sermon he brings proof for the sanctificatioii 
of the day : and it is so well written, that a new 
edition of the discourse has been given since his 
death. 

" His letter to a noble lord concernins: the Canada 
expedition, was printed in London 1712." It is aii 
able vindication of Massachusetts, against the charg- 
es made by the leaders of this romantick expedition 
imder gen. Hill. They were under a necessity of 
recurring to some cause of blame, or take it upon 
themselves. Mr D. makes it evident Massachu- 
setts were great losers, having sunk an immense 
sum, and performed their part, or more than was re- 
quired. 

These, with extracts from his letters, and " vin- 
dication of the New England charters," are all the 
publications known to be his. 

He was skilled in most languages ancient and 
modern, was a graceful speaker, and polite man. 
He had a fine memory, a communicative disposi- 
tion, and was very beneficent, his company was 
sought after eagerly by all lovers of good sense and 
humanity. He retired from business a few years 
before he died, and enjoyed himself with his books 
and friends. Daily Advertiser ^ Lon. 17 1^- Hutch- 
hison and, private mss, 

DuMMER William, lieutenant governour of 
Massachusetts, was born in this province, but went 
over to England, and was at Plymouth holding an 
office there, as one of the commissioners, when he 



D U M 167 

was appointed, through the interest of sir William 
Ashurst, to be lieut. governour, in 1716. He was 
a friend of the Dudley family, and firmly supported 
the administration of gov. Sliute. Hence he was not 
the favourite of the popular party ; nor of those 
who promoted private banks, but was highly res- 
pected by all parties, when their prejudices did not 
operate. He maintained a most respectable charac- 
ter for virtue and talents, especially during his ad- 
ministration as the chief magistrate. Douglass al- 
ways styles it, " the wise administration of Mr. 
Dummer." He was a man of such correct judg- 
ment and steady habits, such a firm and temperate 
conduct, when he supposed himself right, that the 
vessel of state was secure though exposed to the 
dangers of a tempestuous sea. For the opposition 
continued as the adherents of Mr. Shute, and the 
minds of people were agitated by the subjects of 
dispute, continually brought forward in the house 
of representatives. 

There was only one part of his conduct which 
gave offence to the British administration ; but this 
was a matter no way worthy of reproof, and it tend- 
ed to give him popularity in this country. Had he 
not assented to it, he certainly would have lost the 
favour of a very pious and respectable part of the 
community. In the year 1726, the convention of 
the clergy passed a vote to hold a synod. As this 
is a subject purely ecclesiastical, the licut. govern- 
our fell in with it ; or granted his consent. But 
the jealousy of the episcopal party was excited, and 
such representations made to the bishop of London, 
that an instruction came from the ministry to stop 
all proceedings Douglass has preserved the copy 
of the reprimand sent to the chief magistrate for not 
sending the " account of such a remarkable trans- 
action." Licut. gov. Dummer was in the chair, 
from Nov. 1722, to July 19, 1728. Upon gov. 
Burnet's death, Sept. 7, 1729, he was again in the 
chair, till the arrival of gov. Belcher, April 8, 1730. 



16S DUN 

Mr. Taller who had been in the office, before Mr. 
Dummer, but was afterwards collector, was then 
appointed lieut. governour. And Mr. Dummer 
retired to a more private station. He lived to old 
age enjoying otium cum dignitate. It is true that 
for some years he held his seat at the council board, 
and took his rank as the first ; but upon some pop- 
ular question, where he acted with his usual inde- 
pendent spirit, he gave oifence, and he was left out 
of the number at the succeeding election. His 
house was in Nassau -street, afterwards owned br 
Mr. Powell. He was one who contributed to build 
the church in Hollis-street. For many years that 
part of the town,nov/ so populous, was very sparing- 
ly settled. When Mr. D. died, the funeral sermon 
was preached by Dr. Byles the minister of this 
church from its foundation to the revolution. 
Hutchinson. Douglass. 

DuNSTER Henry, president of Harvard College, 
came over in 1640 to Massachusetts ; he was a man 
of an excellent spirit, as well as famous for his liter- 
ary acquirements. He is recorded as the first pres- 
ident of the college, though Dr. Eaton was placed 
at the head of the institution before him. This 
man was set aside, by order of the general court, on 
account of his severity ; he, indeed, wanted every 
qualification, except learning, for the office. The 
same man afterwards went over to the old country, 
conformed to the church of England, and was a 
bi'ttr enemy to Massachusetts, during the reign of 
Chctrles 2d ; but his power and influence were 
small, compared with his malicious humour. Mr, 
Dnnster was mild and amiable in his temper. His 
faculty of governing the students, and mode of in- 
struction, gave him a great share in the esteem and 
affection of all who were interested in the reputation 
of the college. He continued in the chair from the 
year 1640 to 1654; and then resigned on account of 
a difference of opinion, between him and the other 
governours of the college, upon the subjects of bap- 



EAT 169 

tism. Mr. Diinster was persuaded in his own mind 
that infants ought not to be baptized, though lie 
would not separate himself from the churches '.vho 
baptized their children. He thought liberally, but 
allowed others the same freedom of opinion without 
any interruption of church fellowship. He died at 
Scituate, A. D. 1657. And left tokens of his affec- 
tion to those friends who had advised him to leave 
Cambridge. The ministers and magistrates of the 
colony were very desirous of his continuing in the 
station, if he could be persuaded not to propagate 
his peculiar opinion, but he was equally conscien- 
tious and candid, and preferred retirement to a sit- 
uation where he might give offence. 

The New England psalms were revised by pre- 
sident Dunster who was a great Hebrewician, and 
had more taste for poetry, than the divines who first 
undertook to make the version. It is said that till 
they were corrected by him, they were not fitted to 
be sung in the churches. These psalms passed 
through many editions, and till very lately were 
sung in some of the churches.* Magnalia, 

Eaton Theophilus, governour ot New Haven 
colony, was the eldest son of the Rev. Mr. Eaton, 
minister of Stratford in Oxfordshire, who after- 
wards removed to Coventry, and there also per- 
formed the duties of a parish minister. Mr. Davent- 

• In " New England's first fruits" a scarce and curious book 
4to. London, 1643. It is said, over the college is master Dun- 
ster placed as president, a learned considerable and industrious 
man, who has so trained up his pupils in the tongues and arts, 
and so seasoned them with the principles of divinity and chrisr 
tianity, that we have to our great comfort (and in truth) beyond 
our hopes, beheld their progressive in learning and godliness al- 
so. The former of these has appeared in their publick decla- 
mations in latin and greek disputations logical and philosophical, 
which they have been wonted (besides their daily exercises in the 
college hall) in the audience of the magistrates, ministers and 
other scholars for the probation of their youth in learning, upon 
set days constantly once every month to make and uphold : the 
latter hath been manifested in sundry of them by t^ie savoury 
hreathings of their spirits in their godly conversations, &c. 



170 E A T 

port, the father of the famous preacher of that name, 
was mayor of that city. The families became inti- 
mately acquainted. Young Mr. Eaton pursued 
the mercantile line of business, and his friend stud- 
ied divinity. The one was diligent, and grew rich, 
and the other made a shining fi,^ure in his profess- 
ion. Their friendship, which began in the old coun- 
try, was increased by the circumstances which led 
them both over to the American v/ilderness ; and 
was uninterrupted till death parted them. Mr. Ka- 
ton W3ks among the most opulent men who came in- 
to this country. He arrived at Boston in the year 
1637. He had been a patentee of Massachusetts 
colony, but had no idea of leaving England, until 
Mr. Davenport was compelled " to seek a refuge 
from the storm in these cold and rude corners of 
the earth." 

This company preferred to be a distinct colony, 
and purchased a large territory, where they built a 
town, and called it New Haven. It has ever since 
been considered among the fairest places in the 
plantations. Mr. Eaton was chosen governour of 
this new colony, and continued in the office, being 
annually chosen, until his death, A. D. 1657. 

" It was the admiration," saith Dr. Mather, " of 
all spectators to behold the discretion, the gravity, 
and equity with which he managed all publick af- 
fairs. He carried in his countenance a majesty 
which cannot be described, and in his dispensations 
of justice he was a mirror for the most imitable par- 
tiality." He also quotes a saying of his which evinc- 
es the correctness of his mind. " Some account it 
a great matter to die iveliy but I am sure it is a great 
matter to live well. All our care should be while 
we have our life to use it well, and so when death 
puts an end to thaty it will put an end to all our 
cares. 

Dr. Trumbull, author of the history of Connecti- 
cut, speaks highly of gov. Eaton's character. 
", TherQ was no man, among the first planters of 



E D W 171 

New England, who had a more general acquaint- 
ance with publick business, or who sustained a 
fairer character." He says likewise that his monu- 
ument is in good preservation at this time, with lines 
upon it, expressive of his worth and usefulness. 

Gov. Eaton was one who signed the confedera- 
tion of the united colonies in 1643. And his name 
appears to all their acts and proceedings till the lat- 
ter end of the year 1657- In this assembly he had 
an opportunity to exert himself for the good of New 
England, which he failed not to improve. In these 
records, which make the chief j)art of the 2d vol. of 
Hazard's Collections, are precious documents for 
historians, and very great displays of wisdom. The 
first characters of each colony were honoured with 
this commission. 

Gov. Eaton was twice married, his first wife di- 
ed young; she left two children. The second was 
the daughter of the bishop of Chester. She left 
New England after the death of her husband. He 
educated one son at Harvard College, who was gra- 
duated 1649, and died a few years before his excel- 
lent father. Magnalia. Trumbull. Hazard. 

Edwards Jonathan, president of Princetown 
College, in New Jersey, was the son of the rev. 
Timothy Edwards, pastor of the church in Wind- 
sor, Connecticut. He was born, 1702; graduated 
at Yale College, 1720 ; he was soon chosen tutor, 
for which office he was well qualified ; being then 
distinguished for his abilities and learning. While 
he resided at college, he applied his mind closely 
to the study of divinity ; and very soon after he be- 
gan to preach, he was invited to settle at Northamp- 
ton. Mr. Stoddard, who was then minister of the 
church, was his grandfather, and had lived to old 
age. It gave the highest satisfaction to that vene- 
rable man, to have one for his colleague and suc- 
cessor, whose gifts and graces were so extraordina- 
ry ; and for whom he must naturally care more thait 
any other candidate whom the people might 



172 E D W 

call. Mr. Edwards was, indeed, as a son with a 
father, the staff ot his age, as well as a blessing to 
the people, Mr. Stoddard died, 1729. The church 
had been in peace and harmony. Both their minis- 
ters were highly esteemed at home and abroad. 
The practice of baptising children of persons mak- 
ing a profession of religion, who did not join in 
full communion, had not been called in question. 
Unhappily for the town of Northampton, a differ, 
ence ot opinion arose upon this subject ; Mr. Ed- 
wards was fully persuaded in his own mind, that 
none but the children of communicants have a right, 
to baptism ; audit was his desire to bring the church 
over to the same way of thinking. He had thought 
much upon the subject, and in 1748 he published a 
quarto pamphlet, entitled, *' an humble inquiry in- 
to the rules of the word of God concerning the 
qualifications for a full communion in the visible 
christian church." The rev. Solomon Williams 
wrote an answer to this ; to which Mr. Edwards re- 
plied. The dispute occasioned many divisions in 
churches, and the contention was so great in the 
church at Northampton that it issued in a separa- 
tion, A council was called, which advised to a dis- 
mission. He resigned the pastoral office in 1750, 
and had an *' honourable quietus." He was then 
invited to settle in the church at Stockbridge. The 
minister of that town was supported from the funds 
of the London society, Mr, Sargeant had been 
their missionary to the Indians ; they elected Mr. 
Edwards to succeed him, and the inhabitants of the 
town joined heartily in the invitation. In this re- 
tired situation he made himself useful to the people 
both Indians and English, who &at under his minis- 
try ; and he had a fine opportunity to indulge his 
mind in those profound speculations, which had 
given him a distinction among the greatest men of 
the age. 

When president Burr died, he was chosen to 
^succeed him. He had good reasons for not nccept- 



EDW 175 

ing the place, but a sense of duty prevailed over 
every other consideration, and he removed to Prince-- 
town in New Jersey. In this station, which he 
adorned by his reputation, and where he might have 
been very useful if it had pleased Heaven to spare 
his life, he continued but a short time. He died 
of the small pox, Feb. 23, 1758. His death was 
universally lamented. Though many dift'ered from 
him in theological opinions, yet all respected his 
piety and learning. As a preacher he was pathet- 
ick, serious, experimental ; he had a small voice, 
and therefore was not popular among that class of 
people who think that to be zealous, and to cry 
aloud, is the same thing. But his performances in 
the pulpit were peculiarly acceptable to persons of 
■serious views. They were plain, practical and 
adapted to the various capacities of his hearers ; 
which is very remarkable, considering how much 
he wrote and thought upon doctrinal subjects. He 
was certainly a great controversial writer ; most of 
his writings discover this turn of mind, and he has 
written very largely and ably upon many theologi- 
cal subjects. His book upon the " freedom of the 
will" is the most celebrated ; this gives him a name 
among the greatest metaphysicians. " Several pro- 
fessors of divinity in the Dutch universities sent 
him their thanks for the assistance he had given 
them in their inquiry into some doctrinal points, 
having carried his own further than any author they 
had ever seen." This book is written in opposition 
"to Arminian principles ;" and the "Pelagian her- 
esy ;" Dr. Priestly, however, speaks highly of it, 
and says he should suppose an Arminian wrote it. 
The doctor is well known to be a high Supralapsa- 
rian, or Necessarian, which he will not allow to be 
a sentiment exclusively confined to Calvinistick di- 
vines. President Edwards' book is not so clear 
upon tlie subject us some others upon that side the 
question. The style is somewhat intricate, but it 
is a book of deep research ; it discovers great applL- 



174 ELI 

cation of mind, with uncommon strength of intel- 
lectual powers. This has been said of it, that it not 
only proves him a man of great genius, but " the 
superiour force of argument has baffled all opposi- 
tion." His " treatise upon the affections" is ano- 
ther work of great celebrity, and has been read more 
than his "essay on the freedom of the will." He 
published many works, and left many in mss. Since 
his death have been printed, " his defence of the 
doctrine of orii^^inal sin ;" a volume upon the " na- 
ture of virtue ;" the '* history of redemption," &c. 
All his works have been collected lately, in eight 
volumes, of which there is a very good American 
edition, with " memoirs of his life." 

President Edwards left ten children. Of his pos* 
terity there are now several who are very con- 
spicuous among the literary and famous men of 
New England. 

Edwards Jonathan, D.'D president of Sche- 
nectady College, was the son of the rev. president 
Edwards of New Jersey. He was educated at Jer- 
sey College, and graduated in 1765. He was settled 
at New Haven, and continued a number of years in 
the ministry ; but left the place some years before he 
was chosen president of Union College, in which of- 
fice he died. He was an author of very considera- 
ble reputation. His most celebrated publications 
were, an ansvier to Dr. Chauncy's book entitled, 
** salvation for all men," which proved him to be a 
critick and a scholar ; and a reply to the " essays 
upon liberty and necessity," written by Dr. Samuel 
West, of New Bedford, which shows much logi- 
cal acuteness, and is more luminous tlian what his 
father wrote upon the subject. 

Eliot John, commonly called the apostle to the 
Indians, exhibited more lively traits of an extraordi- 
nary character than we find in most ages of the 
church, or in most christian countries. He, who 
could prefer the American wilderness to the pleas- 
ant fields of Europe, was ready to wander through 



ELI US 

ihis wilderness for the sake of doing good. To be 
active was the delight of his soul ; and he went to the 
hovels which could not keep out the wind and rain, 
where he laboured incessantly among the aboriginals 
of America, though his popular talents gave him adis- 
tinction among the first divines of Massachusetts, 
at a time that the magistrates and all the people 
held the clergy in peculiar honour. 

We know but little of his connections before he 
left his native country. He was born in England, 
A, D. 16(j4. There is nothing related of his par- 
ents, except that they gave him a liberal education, 
and were exemplary for their piety ; — for this theii: 
memory is precious. 

" I do see," says this excellent man, **that it was 
a great favour of God to me that my first years 
were seasoned with the fear of God, the word and 
prayer.'* Is there not sj^fficient encouragement to 
educate ingenuous yt^th, and impress the tender 
heart with lessons of wisdom, to think they will 
shed tears of grateful sensibility on our sepulchres ? 

When Mr. Eliot left the university of Cambridge, 
he himself became a teacher ; and while he led 
children and youth into the paths of virtue, acquir- 
ed also an acquaintance with the human heart. At 
this time he had an opportunity of hearing the ven- 
erable Hooker, and never lost the serious impres- 
sions which he received under his preaching ; to 
him he was always attached, as well as to his mode 
oi administering the order of the churches. 

In the year 1631, Mr. Lliot arrived at Boston ; 
and the succeeding year, Nov. 5, 1632, was settled 
as teacher of the church in Roxbury. Gov. Win- 
throp says, •* Mr. John Eliot, a member of Bostoa 
congregation, whom the company intended present- 
ly to call to the office of teacher, was called to be a 
teacher to the company at Roxbury ; and though 
Boston laboured all they could, both with the con- 
gregation at Roxbury and with Mr. Eliot himself, 
alledging their want of him, and the covenant be- 



176 ELI 

tween them, yet he could not be diverted from ac- 
cepting the call at Roxbury ; so he was dismissed." 

When Mr. Eliot came to Boston, the preceding 
year, there was no minister at the first church. Mr. 
Wilson had gone to England, and the religious ser- 
vice was carried on by gov. Winthrop, Mr. Dud- 
ley and Mr. Nowel, the ruling elder. Mr. Hubbard 
says these men accepted the charge, *' knowing- 
well that the princes of Judah, in king Hezekiah's 
reign, were appointed to teach the people out of the 
law of God." 

Mr. Wilson left Boston the latter end of March, 
1631. Mr. Eliot arrived November following, 
with the governour's lady and sixty other persons, 
in the ship Lyon. He immediately joined the first 
church, and preached with them till he settled at 
Roxbury. Had he accepted the call from the first 
church, it might have been happy for the people ; 
but most probably the great work which he after- 
wards undertook, would not have been devised, and 
for this he was very peculiarly qualified. But had 
the connexion taken place, those animosities might 
have been prevented, which afterwards divided the 
church, banished the christian spirit from their 
councils, and disturbed the whole community. Mr. 
Cotton, who was called to be their teacher, was a 
learned and excellent man, but opinionated ; he 
countenanced Wheelwright, Mrs. Hutchinson, and 
others, who were spreading antimonian errors 
through all the churches. The pastor, Mr. Wil- 
son, gov. Winthrop and Mr. Dudley, supported and 
defended tlie principles and practices of the church- 
es, before this fanatical woman, Mrs. Hutchinson, 
came into the country. With them were the min- 
isters and people of the other congregations ; but 
Vane was governour, a hot-brained enthusiast, and 
under his wing Mr. Cotton carried on the opposi- 
tion against the pastor ; the church was divided ; 
mutual censures passed between the brethren, and 
every thing, especially their ecclesiastical affairs^ 



ELI 177 

wore a most gloomy aspect. Amidst this melan- 
choly kind of embarrassment, the prudence and 
good sense of gov. Winthrop were conspicuous. 

Such abilities and so much candour as he possess- 
ed were absolutely necessary for the times. 

The prior engagement of Mr. Eliot to settle with 
the people at Uoxbury, who came over with him in 
the same ship^ and to whom he was warmly attach- 
ed, was sufficient to satisfy his friends of the church 
in Boston, and they gave him a regular dismission. 
He was accordingly united with the church at Rox- 
bury as their teacher, and Mr. Welde was called the 
next year to be their pastor. They lived in much 
harmony ; and under their ministry the town grew 
and flourished ; — it still retains a rank of distinction 
among the best places in the environs of the me- 
tropolis. 

He certainly was the most successful missionary 
that ever preached the gospel to the Indians. His 
prudence and zeal, his patience, resolution, activity 
and knowledge of mankind, were equally conspicu- 
ous. Many have done worthily in this benevolent 
work ; but if we unite an apt method of applying the 
truths of Christianity to the minds of the heathen 
with the success of his labours, he far excelled them 
all. He likewise claims a very peculiar character, 
as being the first Protestant minister who diffused 
the beams of evanij;elical truth among the wild na- 
tions of this benighted part of the globe. The tribes 
that roamed through the desarts become dear to 
him, like his own people, and he often forsook the 
charms of civilized and cultivated society, to reside 
with men, who were not only unacquainted with 
every thing called urbanity^ but who wanted com- 
fortable means of subsistence ; with whom he would 
associate days and weeks to instruct them in di- 
vine things — and also acquaint them how they could 
improve their condition uponthe earth. He partook 
with them their hard fare, with locks wet with the 
deivs of the nighty and exposed to attacks from tiie 

z 



vArtf V 



178 ELI 

beasts of the forests ; or to their spears and arrows 
who were fiercer than wolves, and more terrible in 
their howling. None of these things moved him, 
but he was more collected as he was in the face of 
danger ; like a brave soldier, he fought the good 
fight of faith, bearing every suffering with cheerful- 
ness, and every pain with resignation. 

When cur Indian apostle began his mission, 
there were about seventeen or twenty tribes within 
the limits of the English planters. But these tribes 
were not large, and hardly to be distinguished ; for 
their manners, language and religion were the same. 

The Massachusetts language, in which he trans- 
lated the bible and several practical treatises, would 
serve the purpose of a missionary. The first thing 
he did was to learn this language of the people, and 
then he could preach without the medium of an in- 
terpreter, which is likely to cause mistakes — and 
sometimes in material points. An old Indian, who 
could speak English, was taken into his family, and 
by conversing freely with him he learnt to talk it, 
and soon was able to reduce it to some method, and 
became at last bO much master of it, as to publish a 
grammar, which is printed in some editions of tine 
Indian bibles. 

From his contemporaries, and from his writings, 
We learn, that he always preached in, a plain man- 
ner, but had a happy facility of communicating his 
ideas upon subjects adapted for his people. He was 
warm and diffusive, tender and pathetic, rather co- 
pious than correct in his language ; but though his 
style was not varied with much art, his publick per- 
formances vi ere acceptable in all the churches. His 
method Was natural, his expression easy, his voice 
audible, and his manner very interesting. Out of 
the abundance of his heart his mouth spake, in 
preaching and praying ; and no pastor of New En- 
gland saw more of the fruit of his labours. His dis- 
courses are without those quibbles, gingling words, 
and quaint turns, which mark the false taste of the 



ELI 179 

age ; but were as common in English, as in Ameri- 
can sermons. This strain of preaching was intro- 
duced here by scholars educated in European semi- 
naries, and too successfully imitated by the sons of 
our college. The author of the Magnalia abounds 
even with puerile conceits, and on this account has 
not received that tribute of respect from literary 
men of this generation, which he deserves, for pre- 
serving many facts, or such minute circumstances 
of events, as arc entertaining to read, without his 
peculiarities of style ; and are of infinite service to 
all who would know the affairs of their own coun- 
try. To this author, who was intimately acquaint- 
ed with Mr. Eliot, we are indebted for an extract 
of a sermon upon the heavenly conversation, which 
exhibits the preacher in his common attitude ; for 
the words were taken as they dropped from his 
mouth, without his supposing that they would ever 
appear in print. We certainly can form a more cor- 
rect opinion of the preacher's talents than from the 
description in his biography, where he tells us, that 
*' lambs might wade into his discourses, on those 
texts and themes wherein elephants might swim." 

As to his moral and christian character, it was 
as exemplary as his ministerial qualifications were 
excellent. His mind was governed by a sense of 
duty, and not a mere ease and complacency of hu- 
mour, which makes a man good-natured when he is 
pleased, and patient when he has nothing to vex 
him. He brought his religion into all his actions. 
A stranger to artifice and deceit, he disliked the 
appearance of them in others. He felt equal obliga- 
tions to perform the duties of piety, virtue and be- 
nevolence. Such was the man. He clothed him- 
self with humility as with a robe. Literally speak- 
ing, he wore a leathern girdle about his lions. Per- 
haps this might show too strong a prejudice against 
dress ; but all his actions discovered a temper free 
from vanity, and a desire to be humble, rather than 
to gain the praise of men. He was very temperate : 



180 ELI 

one dish was his homely repast. When he dined 
abroad, he would not indulge himself in the luxu- 
ries of the table. He drank water, and said of wine, 
"it is a noble, generous liquor, and we should be 
humbly thankful for it, but, as I remember, water 
was made before it." , His maintenance was a free 
contribution, or raised upon pews, and the people 
of Roxbury cheerfully supported two ministers. It 
was his request, to give up his salary when he could 
no longer preach. " I do here," said he, " give up 
my salary to the Lord Jesus Christ ; and now, 
brethren, you may fix that upon any man that God 
shall make a pastor." But the society, in their an- 
swer, told him, that they accounted his presence 
worth any sum granted for his support, even if he 
were superannuated so as to do no further service 
for them. The youth of the congregation called 
him their fother and ihe'n friend ^ and their affection 
chased away the gloom so apt to hover around the 
evening of life. Such attentions from the rising 
generation, are like medicine to the spirit of a man 
sinking within him. The reflection of a life well 
spent, and the kindness of his friends, made his old 
age pleasant. 

In domestick life, Mr. Eliot was peculiarly happy. 
His lady was an excellent economist, and by her 
prudent management enabled him to be generous to 
his friends, and hospitable to strangers. It ought 
to be mentioned to the credit of this excellent wo- 
man, that with a moderate stipend and her prudence, 
he educated four sons at Cambridge, who were a- 
mong the best preachers of that generation. A small 
Sialary, where a proper arrangement is made of the 
expenses, and the wife looks well to the ways of her 
household^ may answer generous as well as necessa- 
ry purposes : But when frugality is despised, and 
prudence called a nigardly virtue ; when the frag- 
ments which might be gathered are lost, it is not 
the income of the most lucrative stations, much less 
the salaries of pastors of churches, that will maintain 
people in ease and independence. 



ELI 181 

By the influence of Mr. Boyle, his honorable 
friend, Mr. Eliot was allowed fifty pounds, annually, 
from the society de propagandjide. This enabled 
him to gratify his benevolent propensities ; the poor 
Indians, to whom the gospel was preached, shared 
the most of the donation. His character is thus ce- 
lebrated by one ot his biographers : — " It was a 
brilliant star in the constellation of his virtues, and 
the rays of it were various and extensive. He gave 
largely from his own income to the poor, and pro- 
moted all kinds of useful distributions, especially if 
he could serve the cause of religion. When his 
age unfitted him for publick employment, he re- 
flected that he did good as he had opportunity. 
*' Alas !" said he, *' I have lost every thing. — My 
understanding leaves me, my memory fails me, but 
I thank God my charity holds out still.* 

It becomes necessary to mark the minute circum- 
stances of a person's character, if we would obtain 
just views of his temper and actions. Hence bio- 
graphy differs from history, whose province is to 
describe great events which elevate the mind of the 
reader ; and which requires dignity of manner with 
the glow of sentiment. But in the narrative of pri- 
vate life, we survey the man in all his various atti- 

* So great was Mr. Eliot's charily, that his salary v.'as often 
distributed for the relief of his needy neighbours, so soon after the 
period at which he received it, that before another period arrived 
ins own family were straitened for the comforts of life. One day 
the parish treasurer on paying the money for salary due, which 
he put into a handkerchief, in order to prevent Mr. Lliot from 
giving away his money before he got home, tied the ends of the 
handkerchief in as many hard knots^iis he could. The good man 
received his handkerehief) and took leave of the treasurer. He 
imnkediately went to the house of \ sick and necessitous family. 
On entering, he gave them his blessing, and told them God had 
sent them some relief. The sufferers with tears of gratitude- 
welcomed their pious benefactor, who with moistened eyes began 
to untie the knots in his handkerchief. After many efforts to get 
at his money, and impatient at the perplexity and delay, he gave 
the handkerchief and all the money to the mother of the family, 
saying with a trembling accent : " Here, my dear, take it \ I be- 
lieve the Lord designs it all for you." 



582 ELI 

tildes, frequently without a design to point a moral : 
We follow him through the vales and descents of 
his situation, and feci interested in every thing which 
concerns him, till, by dwelling upon k'mdred ima- 
ges, he grows into a familiar acquaintance. 

Most men have their oddities and strange hu- 
mours. Among the prejudices of Mr. Eliot was 
one very strong against wearing wigs. He preach- 
ed against it ; he prayed against it ; he thought all 
the calamities of the country, even Indian wars, 
might be traced to thin absurd fashion. Many 
things have been told by the people of Roxbury, 
which were handed down to them by their ances- 
tors, that seem only like amusing stories, of the 
good man's resentment. And in the written ac- 
count by Cotton Mather, it is said that he thought 
it a " luxurious, feminine protexity for men to wear 
their hair long." Especially, a shame for minis- 
ters of the gospel to *' ruffle their heads in excesses 
of this kind" The doctor touches lightly upon 
this subject, for he himself wore a wig ; and he 
makes a judicious observation — " Doubtless," said 
he, " it may be lawful in us to accommodate our 
hair to the modest customs which vary in the 
cuurch of God; and it may be lawful for them, 
who have not hair of their own, enough for their 
health, to supply themselves according to the sober 
modes of the places where they live. Mr. Eliot 
lived to see the prevalence of the fashion, to sec ma- 
ny an orthodox minister wear a great white wig, 
and it is reported that he gave over the utterance 
of his grieved spirit, saying only as a last word of 
complaint that the " lust was insuperable." 

His prejudices were as strong against the use of 
tobacco. He thought it was a sacrifice of precious 
time — a silly amusement, disgusting in itself; that 
christians ought not to become slaves to such a per- 
nicious weed, and besotted by its influence. But 
he might as well have preached to the moon, as to 
resist the tide of fashion ; or fought with the stars 



ELI 18^ 

in their courses, as to struggle with the pride of o- 
pinion, or the appetites of sense ; and try to per- 
suade men not to use a weed which carries a charm 
with it for its intoxicating quality ; — which equally 
tends to exhilarate their spirits and amuse their lei- 
sure hours. 

The use of ardent spirits was then hardly known. 
Hugh Peters, a friend of his, and contemporary- 
writer, says : He never saw a man, woman, or child, 
drunk in the streets of Boston — nor recollects hear- 
ing an oath. Stern virtue had a dominion or au- 
thority which she has lost since, and it may be long 
before we recur to the practices or principles of 
the New England planters. 

Our Roxbury divine has been accused by some 
of versatility in his opinions and conduct : By 
others, of being too set and rigid in his notions. If 
there is an inconsistency in this, it is what we see 
every day. Persons think themselves right and are 
warm in defending a sentiment. — The same sensibil- 
ity of mind may be manifested after they have altered 
their way of thinking. Hutchinson quotes a letter 
of Hooker, where he says : " A copy of Mr. Vane's 
expressions at Roxbury, I desire to see and receive 
by the next messenger. I have heard that my bro- 
ther Eliot is come about to this opinion : 1 have 
writ to him — I would fain come to a bandy with 
him, where I might be a little rude in the business, 
for I do as verily believe it to be false, as 1 do be- 
lieve any article of my faith to be true." From his 
behaviour at the trial of Mrs. Hutchinson, we rather 
think Mr. Hooker was misinformed. He never was 
a partizan of Vane, but always adhered to gov. 
Winthrop. 

His setness of opinion was also manifested in 
controverting with the great Dr. Owen the proper 
observation of the sabbath, but he thought the doc- 
tor's name and character, might carry more weight 
than his arguments had intrinsic excellency. 

His political opinions more than once brought 



184 ELI 

him into trouble. He spake with freedom against- 
the Indian treaty, and was obliged to recant before 
the magistrates. Roger Williams and he were of 
the same opinion, but the one was cofivinced, and 
confessed his error ; the other ivas not so easily mov- 
ed or conmnced. 

This was in the year 1636. Afterwards he dis- 
covered more of a democratic spirit, by writing a- 
gainst monarchy, when it was not safe for puritan 
divines to speak of the ruling power, and the re- 
publicans in the mother country had their tongues 
locked in silence. Hutchinson tells us, in the first 
book of his history, that the governour and coun- 
cil, in the year 1660, took notice of a book pub- 
lished by Mr. Eliot not long before, intitled, the 
Christian Commonixiealth^ full of seditious princi- 
ples and notions, in relation to all established gov- 
ernments in the christian world, especially against 
the government established in their native country. 
Upon consultation with the elders, their censure 
was deferred until the next general court, that Mr, 
Eliot might have an opportunity, in the meantime, 
of making a publick recantation. At the next ses- 
sion, Mr. Eliot gave in his acknowledgment to the 
court : 

" Understanding, by an act of the honoured 
council, that there is offence taken at a book pub- 
lished in England by others, the copy whereof was 
sent over by myself about ten years since, and that 
the further consideration thereof is commended to 
this honourable general court, now sitting in Bos- 
ton. Upon perusal thereof, I do judge myself to 
have offended ; and, in a way of satisfaction, not 
only to the authority of this jurisdiction, but also 
to any others that shall take notice thereof, I do 
hereby acknowledge to this general court, that such 
expressions as do manifestly scandalize the govern- 
ment of England by king, lords, and commons, as 
antichristian, and justify the late innovator, 1 do 
sincerely bear testimony against, and acknowledge 



E L I 185 

it to be true, not only a lawful, but eminent, fornji 
of government. 

*' 2. All form of civil {government deduced from, 
scripture, I acknovvleds^e to be of God, and to be 
subjected to, for conscience' sake ; and whatsoever 
is in the whole epistle or book inconsistent here- 
with, I do at once most cordially disown." Johu 
Eliot." 

The books were ordered by the court to be call- 
ed in, and this acknowledgment to be posted up in 
the principal towns of the colony. 

During the war with the sachem Philip, 1675, 
our Roxbury divine appears in a character very in- 
teresting to the community. The traces of war 
are blood and slaughter. The people of Massachu- 
setts, ifi their phrenzy, would have destroyed the 
praying Indians with the savages whose feet were 
swift to spread destruction in every path. Mr. El- 
iot was their advocate and friend. They were put 
under a kind of duress, which was injurious to them 
if they were innocent, but which was more aggra- 
vating because they took a decided part against their 
own nation ; this they bore with patience, or a ve- 
ry faint expression of complacency. Mr. I'liotwas 
not only persuaded that they were friendly, but 
that they were of great service to the Knglish, with 
whom they would live or die, rather than mingle 
with heathens. Being assisted by gen. Gookin, he 
defended their cause, and protected them against 
those men of violence who were less in the image 
sf God than those poor outcasts of human society ; 
men^ who lost their reputation, as christians, be- 
cause they gave way to the fury of their passions. 
Every thing was said against the minister and ma- 
gistrate which could be uttered by the foul mouth 
of the vulgar, or from the lips of some whose edu- 
cation was liberal, and whose religion ought to have 
made more candid ; but who stimulated the bitter 
sarcasms of the multitude. Nothing could shake 
the resolution of such men, conscious of rectitude ; 
A a 



186 ELI 

Tand we never behold the subject of these mejnoirs to 
more advantage than he appears when he pleads the 
cause of these poor, friendless beings. It is no 
wonder, therefore, that having shown his abilities 
and firmness, he acquired such an influence over 
the various tribes as no other missionary to the In- 
dians could ever obtain. We can overlook a mul- 
titude of errors, where such divine charity throws 
the purest lustre upon the character. We can ex- 
cuse such prejudices, which by themselves seem 
like effusions of human weakness, when, in the same 
life, we see the charms of 'virtue ; nor let us blame 
even an obstinacy of humour if mingled with a 
firmness that gives dignity to human nature. Hav- 
ing mentioned certain oddities in his disposition, or 
a few singularities, or puerile antipathies against 
new customs, which in the present day would cause 
a smile of ridicule, let these be balanced by the hon- 
esty and frankness of his manners He was as te- 
nacious of truth and justice as of his own opinion. 
He must also have possessed some of those rare 
qualities which conciliate popularity, an uncommon 
affability to gain an influence in society which could 
never be acquired by ministerial gifts and graces, 
although these might make him an ornament to the 
pulpit. 

There is a story which perhaps should not be 
omitted. It is related by one fond of the marvel- 
lous, (Cotton Mather.) Mr. Eliot was in a boat, 
that was overset by a vessel running against it, A 
profane wretch, one who clamoured for the extir- 
pation of the praying Indians said, he wished the 
man of God had been drowned. In a few days this 
man was drowned in the very place where Mr. El- 
iot had received his deliverance. 

After living eighty. six years in this w^orld of tri- 
al, the spirit of this excellent divine took its flight 
to a better world For many years he had his con- 
versation in heaiien ; his faith seemed to be swal- 
lowed up in vision, and his hopes in fruition. He 



ELI 187 

lost his most amiable companion two years before. 
He was then sick and expected and longed for his 
own departure. Their children they had followed 
to the gra'vc^ and had comforted each other as they 
drank the bitter ingredients from the cup of adver- 
sity. He died in the year 1690. 

Few of his family were alive to lament his death ; 
but he was lamented by the whole family of virtue, 
and by all t!ie sincere friends of religion. The poor 
church at Natick not only joined with those who 
dropped a tear upon his dust, but streams of sorrow 
flowed from the heart. Though he lived many 
years they were filled with usefulness ; succeeding 
generations mentioned his name with uncommon 
respect ; his labours were applauded in Europe and 
America ; and all vvho now contemplate his active 
services, his benevolent zeal, his prudence, his up- 
right conduct, his charity, are ready to declare his 
memory precious. Such a man will be handed 
down to future times, an object of admiration and 
love ; and appear conspicuous in the historick page 
when distant ages celebrate ik^t Worthies of I^ew 
England.* 

• SVorks.— The true commomvealth ; tears of repentance. Sec 
harmony of the gospels ; an Indian grammar ; Indian psalter; 
the whole bible in the same language. 

Of Mr. Eliot's four sons, the eldest, John Eliot, was graduated 
at Cambridge in 1656; was settled at Newton, the spot where the 
first assembly ot praying Indians were assembled. He was a 
preacher to ihe aboriginals, and probiibly assisted his father in 
translating the scriptures JVIr Homer in his history of Newton 
has given a very interesting view of the character of this excellent 
divine. Hedied. 1668. in the 33d year of liis age. 

Joseph, the second son, was graduated at Harvard (^-olIege,1653. 
He was minister of the church at Guildtord, in Connecticut, above 
30 years. He died. 1694. 

Samuel, the third son. was graduated, 1660 ; was a tutor and fel- 
low of Harvard CoUe^^ ; a candidate for the ministry. He died ear- 
ly in life, " a young man eminent for learning and goodness." 

Benjamin, the fourth son, was graduated, 1665 ; was ordained 
colleague with his father.but died before him : upon which the au- 
thor of the Magnalia makes this reflection, after G Nazianzen. 
" The father havmg laid up in a better world a rich inheritance lor 
his children sent a son of his bcfcrc to take possession of it." 



188 ELI 

Eliot Tared, pastor of the church at Killing- 
worth, Connecticut, was the son of the rev Joseph 
Eliot, of Guildford, and born, Nov. 7, 1683; he 
was graduated at Yale College, 1706. He proceed- 
ed master of arts ; and had the degree also present- 
ed from Harvard College. He was minister of 
Killingvvorth till his death, April, 1763. In Chand- 
ler's life of president Johnson, we are told, that Mr. 
Kliot once doubted of the validity of presbyterian 
ordination. He afterwards acknowledged that he 
had been too precipitate in forming and communi- 
cating his opinion. From the account of the epis- 
copal writers one would suppose that the clergy and 
people of Connecticut, at that period, were very il- 
literate ; or that none but the rector of Yale, and 
those young gentlemen who had declared in favour 
of the episcopal church were conversant with books, 
or had any reputation for knowledge. By other 
accounts, especially by certain letters sent to the 
ministers of Boston, it appears, that there were 
other men of talents in the government of the col- 
lege ; and that, in this very controversy with the 
rector, they were able to convince three ^ who made a 
great figure in their profession, that their ordination 
had been valid. Mr, h. had been among diose 
who were the most strenuous. He, and Mr. 
Johnson had not only expressed doubts, but a full 
persuasion,that there was no ordination except from 
the hands of bishops in a line from the apostles. It 
is agreed on all sides that the six young gentlemen 
who signed the declaration, were excellent scholars, 
and of irreproachable morals ; but the opinion which 
some had of the rector was very diiftrt nt from what 
his friends have represented. " He was an episco- 
palian many years while minister at Stratford ;" he 
accepted the chair of Yale College wheci " he knew 
he was guilty of dissimulation ;" he acted a Jesuit- 
ical part in seducing young men of talents from the 
paths they and their fathers had v^alked ; and was 
such a bigot as to declare before the trustees, that 



E L I 189 

he believed " there was no salvation out of the epis" 
copal church." These things were said by the 
trustees of the college ; perhaps their prejudices 
might give a tone of severity to their censure of 
his conduct when he first delivered his sentiments 
in publick.* 

Mr. b.liot was a member of the corporation of 
Yale College from the year 1730 to 1762. 

In 1752, president Clap wrote his defence of the 
New England chinches. At a general association 
of the ministers of the county this book was approv- 
ed, and signed by Jared Eliot, moderator. 

Whether he ever published any sermons or theo- 
logical treatise, we have not been able to ascertain, 
except a " sermon upon the taking of Louisburg, 
1745." He was distinguished for his skill in natu- 
ral philosophy, and made some physical experi- 
ments which were useful as well as ingenious. As 
a botanist he was certainly the first in New Eng- 
land, and his " agricultural essays" have passed 
through several editions. f 

Eliot Andrew, D.D. was born in Boston ; had 
the rudiments of his education at the south gram- 

• How is thegold become dinn,andthe silver become dross, and 
the wine mixt with water I our school gloried and flourished un- 
der the first rector, the rev. Mr. Pearson, a pattern of piety, a 
man of modest worth, of solid learning;, and sound principles, 
free from the least arminian or episcopal taint ; but it suffered a 
decay for some years, because of the want of a resident rector. 
But who could have conjectured, that its name being raised to 
Collegium Yaltnse from a Gymnasium Saybrookense, it should 
groan out Ichabod in about three years and a half, under its se- 
cond rector, so unlike the first, by an unhappy election set over it, 
into whose election or confirmation, or any act relating to him, 
the senior subscriber hereof (though not for some reason througli 
malice bruited about) never came. — Extract of a letter to the 
Boston ministers, signed, John Davenport, Stamford S. Buck- 
ingham, Sec. 

t By the kindness of gov. Trumbull, part of the information 
concernins? Mr. Eliot was obtained from his son George Kliot, 
esq. of Killingworth — Concerning the family of the apostle, he 
diflCers from tlie author of the Magnalia — Benjamin was not the 
fourth son— there was one named Aaron, next to Samuel, who 
died young. Mr, E. also relates that his great grand father, the 
apostJe Lliot, was born at Nasin, Essex county. 



190 ELI 

tnar school under Dr. Williams and Mr. Lovel ; 
•was graduated at Harvard College in 1737 ; and 
ordained pastor of the church in North street, April 
14, 1742. To delineate his character may not be 
proper for the compiler of this work ; such facts 
will be mentioned only* as are necessarily connected 
with the notices of his life. He had a strong attachment 
to the constitution of the New li.ngland churches ; 
was zealous in promoting the interest and reputa- 
tion of the college, and active in serving the pur- 
poses of all humane and pious as well as literary in- 
stitutions. He was a member of the London soci- 
ety for propagating the gospel among the Indians, 
and when a board from Scotland was constituted in 
Boston, he was appointed one of the first members. 
He joined with others in getting an act through the 
general court to establish a similar society in Mas- 
sachusetts, which was negatived by gov. Bernard ; 
and a large subscription lost, that was designed as 
a fund for the institution. If he ever manifested en- 
thusiasm, it was in the persuasion of the great good 
which would arise from the missions to the various 
tribes of the aboriginals. The result, however, 
did not answer his expectations ; and the latter part 
ot his life he often expressed his concern that such 
lively hopes v/cre defeated, and vast sums expend- 
ed to so little purpose.* 

• The circumstances preceding the war might occasion this 
disappointment. The Indians were wrought up to a different 
temper by other persons, from what the preachers of t;ie gospel 
of peace effected. Sir William Johnson it is supposed had an 
influence over them, who was prejudiced in favour of tlie church 
ot England and the measures of tl e British administration. By 
certain letters which passed hetween gov. Hutchinson and this 
gentleman, it seems the society desired the governour to write, 
and remonstrate against his conduct, which he very highly resent- 
ed. Another thing ought to be considered as the great hindrance 
of the success of the missionaries. That they did not first civil- 
ize them. It was generally believed that l)\e first object should 
be to convert them ; and civilization would follow of course. 
This was a favourite sentiment of the board in Scotland. It met 
the opinion also of Dr. Chauncy, and several gentlemen in Bos- 



ELI 191 

In 1765, Dr. E. was chosen fellow of the corpo- 
ration of Harvard College. He had been some years 
secretary of the board of overseers ; and was one of 
the committee to obtain donations after the old col- 
lege was burnt. Many of the present generation 
remember his exertions to procure the present li- 
brary and apparatus. He did not confine his appli- 
cation to gentlemen in the provinces. Several val- 
uable presents were made to the library at his par- 
ticular request by his correspondents in England. 
When that venerable man, president Holyoke, rest- 
ed from his labours, it was the publick expectation, 
that he would succeed him, but as he could not 
think of breaking the connection with his people, 
who were unwilling to part with him, he declined 
standing a candidate for the office. Afterwards, 
when the chair was again vacant by the resignation 
of another president, he was one of three fellows of 
the college, elected by the corporation. This he 
opposed, but his opinion was overruled. It appear- 
ed to him, as to many other persons in the province, 
a deviation from the line of decorum for gentlemen 
of the same body to choose each other into office, 
for the sake of the honour, when it was well under- 
stood they would not accept it. 

There were other events in his life, which are 
worthy of a relation, as they manifest how much his 
aim was to be useful. When lieut, gov. Hutchinson's 
house was pillaged, and pulled to pieces by an infuri- 
ated mob, his books and mss. were thrown into the 
streets, and were in danger of being completely 
destroyed. Dr. E. made every exertion to save 
them. Several trunks of mss. among them the se- 
cond volume of the history of Massachusetts Bay> 

ton. The method the societies now practice is, to teach thera 
the arts of life ; and some tribes feel the necessity of cultivating- 
their lands, of acquiring manual employments, are sensible of 
the benefit of early instruction for their children, so that the pros- 
pect is fair of their improving the means of religion while the.y 
enjoy the blessings of social life. 



192 ELI 

were preserved by his care and attention, and he 
spent much timr in assisting to arrange them. 

Another thing may be mentioned as manifesting 
how mnch he was influenced by a sense of duty. 
He remained in Boston during the blockade from 
April 19, 17V5, to the March of the succeeding 
year. His friends, his family, and most of his con- 
gregation had left the town, but the inhabitants who 
could not leave their dwellings were many, and 
they constituted a very large religious society. He 
shared with them in their aflliction, preached every 
Sabbath, and paid every attention which is ever ex- 
pected from a pastor to his flock. He often ob- 
served, that although he never passed a season, 
when his own feelings were more tried, yet he ne- 
ver had an opportunity to be more useful. Others 
have said, his preaching was uncommonly impres- 
sive. For several months Dr. Mather and he at- 
tended the lliursday lecture, but finding it incon- 
venient, they agreed to bring it to a close, and a 
farewell sermon was preached upon an occasion 
which many circumstances concurred to render ve- 
ry solemn and affecting. When the people of the 
town returned, this lecture was again opened ; gen. 
Washington and the officers of the American army 
attended ; a fuller assembly has been seldom 
known ; Dr. E. preached from Isaiah xxxiii. 20, 
and gave a very interesting view of the state of the 
town. The latter years of his life, he appeared to en- 
joy a good degree of health, had the same animation 
in the pulpit, and vivacity in his conversation, but he 
was subject to bodily complaints which he supposed 
to be indications of a speedy dissolution. In the 
summer of 1 77ti, he complained more than usual, but 
did not confine himself to the house till the first 
week of September, and died the 50th day of the. 
month. He had been 36 years in the ministry and 
was in the 60th year of his age.* 

• Works. — He was never fond of printings sermons. When he 
\v^s desired to pubhsh any single discourse which had gratified 



END 193 

Endicot John, governour of Massachusetts, 
was from Dorchester in England, and one who 
purchased of the council of Plymouth that part of 
New England three miles to the south of Charles 
river, and three miles north of Merrimack from the 
Atlantick to the South sea. In the summer of 
1628, he was sent over to Naumkeake with a com- 
pany who considered him as governour of the plan- 
tation, because all the affairs of this infant settle- 
ment were committed to his care. He was a man 
peculiar in hib notions, rigid in his religious princi- 
ples, eager and ardent in all his views. One of his 
odd opinions was, that women ought to wear veils 
that their faces may never be seen in the church ; 

his people ; his answer was, that he intended to collect a num- 
ber- which he would publish in a volume after some years. This 
volume of twenty sermons was printed in the year 1774. ihe 
other discourses which appeared at different times, were five 
" ordination sermons;" one upon the 'inordinate love of the 
world ;" a sermon after " the death of Mr. Webb ; ' a fast ser- 
mon, 1754 ; one upon the thanksgiving, 1759 ; the election ser- 
mon, 1765 ; a sermon at the Dudleian lecture, 1771 ; also, a ser- 
mon " upon the thief on the cross." He wrote several pieces ia 
the episcopal controversy, particularly " remarks upon the bish- 
op of Ox'.ord's sermons," extracts of which were published ia 
England, by Dr. ULickburn ; his friends there also printed an 
edition of his election sermon. In the memoirs of F. Hollis, esq. 
of London, there are several pages filled with the letters he 
wrote to that gentleman. A letter fiom a friend of his will close 
the account of his writings. " I well remember two (I believe 
there were three pieces) of your father's, which I copied at his 
desire and carried for publication, saying nothing save that they 
were written by a worthy friend. To say they were excellent 
would be superfluous One of them on prelatical ordination was 
much spoken of and admired. Old justice Dana in particular 
was abundant ; I need not say that he was loud in his praises. 
How many others he wrote, of which he was willing robe known 
as the writer, I am not able to say." The gentleman who wrote 
the above, was his particular friend* Their intimacy, which be- 
gan in youth, and was founded on mutual esteem, increased with 
their years ; death separated them for a while, but a most affec- 
tionate remembrance of the good qualities of his deceased friend 
is still lively in the breast of the survivor. 

• Hon. Samuel Dexter. 

Bb 



194 , END 

and this matter he disputed with Mr. Cotton at a 
lecture in Boston. He acted so violent a part in 
executing his plan of church government, that we 
are told, the " friends of the colony in England 
wrote a reproof to him, and that he never recover- 
ed his reputation in England."* He also gave 
great offence to the civil power in the plantation, 
by cutting the cross out of the colours. He consid- 
ered this as a piece of Romish superstition, being 
influenced by the opinion of his minister, Mr. Wil- 
liams, who, with many prominent traits of a great 
character, was very zealous and opinionated. They, 
however, carried their point. For though the mi- 
litia first refused to train with colours that/ were so 
defaced, the cross was very soon left out by the 
general expression of the publick sentiment. Mr. 
Endicot was, at the time, censured by the people, 
as well as the government, and the succeeding year, 
1635, left out of the magistracy. " They adjudg- 
ed him worthy of admonition, and to be disabled 
for one year from bearing any publick office ; de- 
clining any heavier sentence, because they were 
persuaded he did it out of tenderness of conscience 
and not of evil intent." 

Mr. E. was chosen afterwards an officer to com- 
mand fourscore men, against the Pequods ; but not 
succeeding in making an attack upon them, lie was 
much blamed. According to the best accounts he 
acted with prudence ; for winter was approaching, 
and he must have followed them through the woods 
wherever they fled ; his object likewise was to make 
a bolder attempt to subdue them the next season. 
He soon acquired more ascendency in the civil af- 
fairs of the colony ; and in 1641 was chosen depu- 
ty governour, which office he held the two succeed- 
ing years, and was placed in the chair of government 
in 1644, Winthrop being the deputy. A new of- 
fice was created the same year, that of major gene- 

* Bentley's description of Salepi. 



END 195 

ral, and given to Mr. Dudley. He had the sole 
command of the militia, as the governour was at 
the head of the civil department. In 1645, Mr. 
Dudley was chosen governour, and Mr. Endicot 
appointed major general. After gov.Winthrop died, 
Dudley and Endicot were the candidates for the 
chief seats. In 1649, Mr. E. was in the chair, at 
the head of the magistrates, and signed a declaration 
against wearing wigs, *^ as a thing uncivil and un- 
manly, whereby men do deform themselves, and 
offend sober and modest men, and do corrupt good 
manners." He was chosen governour every year 
from 1655 to 1660. No governour since the set- 
tlement of the country has been for so many years 
chief mah^istrate. He was 16 years governour of 
the colony, and in the office when he died, 15th of 
March, 1^65. 

Though he was more rigid in his notions, and 
bigotted in his religious principles than any other 
of the magistrates, yet he was very acceptable to 
the people when they had advanced him to the chief 
places. The opposition he made to gov. Winthrop, 
and the discordant proceedings attending it, might 
arise in some measure from jealousy and envy. He 
had been a kind of sub- governour in the plantation 
before the gentlemen came over in the Arabella. 
They were his superiors in property, character and 
inftuence. Though he was one of the assistants, it 
did not satisfy him. There was another ground of 
rivalship between the settlement at Naumkeake, 
and the towns that were situated upon the banks of 
Charles river, which place should be the capital. 
This caused bitter altercations, and had a political 
influence, especially upon the choice of magistrates. 
Boston being such a convenient mart for business, 
and other circumstances concurring to increase its 
population, soon obtained the preference ; and has 
continued unto this day to be the metropolis. 

Mr. Endicot being in the chair of government, 
and having moved to Boston, had every inducement 



196 FAN 

to promote the general harmony and peace of the 
community. The change of government in Kng- 
iand, when Charles II. came to the throne was 
grievous to all the people of New t.ngland, but to 
no individual more than to Mr. ^.ndicot. He had 
every thing to try his fortitude and his prudence. 
Several of the regicides had been protected under 
his government, who fled from Massachusetts when 
the proclamation issued against them, reached these 
shores. He afterwards made exertions to secure 
them. His duty, as a publick ofiicer, stimulated 
him to act thus, whatever might have been his 
friendship for the persons. The commissioners 
sent over by the court of Great Britain, to inquire 
into the state of the colonies, always gave unfa- 
vourable accounts of Massachusetts and their gover- 
nour. Such was their representation of his conduct 
that the secretary of state wrote, " The king would 
take it well, if tiie people would leave out Mr. En- 
dicot from the place of governour." But no other 
power than death removed him ; his body was buri- 
ed in peace, and his name is mentioned among 
those who did honour to their country. 

Faneuil Peter, esq. presented the market- 
house, to the town of Boston. — At a meeting of 
the inhabitants, it was unanimously voted, that the 
town do with the utmost gratitude receive and ac- 
cept his most generous and noble benefaction, and 
that a committee of 21 gentlemen be appointed to 
wait on him in the name of the town to render him 
their most hearty thanks for so bountiful a gift, 
with their prayers that this and other expressions of 
his bounty and charity may be abundantly recom- 
pensed by the divine blessing. 

In testimony of their gratitude they named it 
Faneuil Hall. They also voted that the picture of 
the said Peter Faneuil, esq. be drawn at full length, 
and placed in the hall at the expence of the town. 
He died, 1742. 



F 1 R 197 

FiRMiN Gyles, physician in New England, 
preacher at Sirattbrd, in Great Britain, was born in 
Suffolk, 1614, 15, educated at Cambridge univer- 
versity, and is mentioned by Dr. Calamy among the 
ejected ministers, 1662. He was in Boston early in 
life, being of the puritan stamp, and not finding re- 
ligious freedom in his native country. Soon after he 
came to New England, he was chosen deacon of the 
church in Boston. He was one of the synod at Cam- 
bridge, 1637, and a great opposer of the x\ntinomi- 
ans. In Hutchinson's collection of papers there is 
a letter of his, addressed to gov. Winthrop, in 1642, 
soon after the treachery of the governour's servant, 
w'ho defrauded him of his property. He expressed 
his sympathy upon this occasion, and then proposes 
a settlement for himself and others upon Shawsiu 
river. 

At the end of the civil wars he returned to Eng- 
land, left the profession, though not altogether the 
practice of physick, and settled at Stratford, or 
Strawford. He was 40 years of ajje when he was 
ordained. He continued to preach as long as they 
would suffer him ; and when ejected by that arbi- 
trary mandate which threw so many excellent men 
into straits and misery, he retired to Redgwell, a 
little village, where he continued till his death, 
April, 1697. 

It is said he continued longer preaching than most 
dissenting ministers, on account of the favour of 
the neighbouring gentry and justices of the peace, 
who applied to him as a physician, and saw how 
much the poor were benefited by him, whom he 
was ready to serve gratis. He lived to be above 
fourscore, and enjoyed a fine state of health, to 
which change of climate, and active life in subduing 
the wilderness doubtless contributed. He was emi- 
nent for his parts and learning. His skill in phy- 
sick and surgery was uncommon. He under- 
stood the oriental tongues ; had read the fathers, 
schoolmen and church history ; had a logical acu 



198 F I S 

men which he discovered in disputing with Papists, 
Socinians, Arminians. &c. but especially with Kpis- 
copalians. His own sentiments brought him to a 
middle way between the Presbyterians and Inde- 
pendents. He states in his book, " the conformist 
and non-conformist compared," that there ought to 
be several elders in each church, of which the teach- 
ing elder is president. This was the opinion of 
many of our fathers, and was practised in a large 
proportion of the churches, but is now set aside for 
very good reasons, which were not so forcible in 
early times of the plantation. His most famous 
work, '* the real christian or a treatise on effectual 
calling," has been printed several times in Boston, 
and few works were read more by serious people of 
the last generation. As a man he was not rigid nor 
morose, but peaceable, quiet and inoffensive ; he let 
his moderation be known, and was a lover of good 
men of all denominations.* 

FisK John, educated at Emanuel College, Cam- 
bridge, came to New England, 1637, preached 
three years at Salem, then removed to Wenham, 
where he resided fourteen years. In 1656, he, with 
the greatest part of his church, removed to Chelms- 
ford. He died, Jan 14, 1676, aged 75. 

He was an able physician as well as a useful 
preacher. When he was silenced in England on 
account of his nonconformity, he studied physick, 

* His publications were numerous. He printed, 1651, Ques' 
lions whether baptism should be administered to the children of 
persons notoriously wicked. In 1658, a treatise upon the schism 
hi parochial congregations in I-">ngland. In 1673, his most fa- 
mous work, the real christian or a treatise upon effectual calling. 
In 1681, Questions between a conformist and non-cunformist tru- 
ly stated, Sec. Beside these, he published Presbyterian ordination 
vindicated ; the plea of children of believing parents for their in- 
terest in Abraham's covenant, their right to church membership, 
and several other treatises upon infant baptism ; remarks on 
Dr. Crisp's writings; vveiglity questions discussed, 1. About 
the interposition of hands, 2. About teaching ^elders and the 
members meeting in one plctce, 4to. 1692, 



FIS 199 

and after a proper examination, he obtained a li- 
cense for publick practice. While he was at Salem 
he was an instructor of youth ; among his scholars 
was the famous sir George Downing, whose father 
had made his settlement in that town. 

Mr. Fisk published a catechism which he enti- 
tled, " the olive branch watered," which was said 
to be a useful work ; yet he chose the assembly's cate- 
chismioY his publick expositions, which he went over 
in discourses before his afternoon sermons on the 
Sabbath. He died of a complication of ails, and 
is compared on this account to Calvin, who was 
troubled with as many infirmities, as in different 
subjects might have supplied a hospital. 

Mr. Fisk left several children. One was set- 
tled in the ministry at Braintree. This gentle- 
man was graduated at Harvard College, 1662 ; 
he had a son who was graduated, 1708, who was 
invited to settle in the new church, Summer street, 
Boston, but the division was so great, that he de- 
clined their call. The ministers of Boston w^ere 
very desirous Mr. F. should be fixed in the 
town. He afterwards was minister of the first 
church in Salem j ordained, 1718 ; was dismissed 
from the ministry, 1745, and died, 1770, aged 81, 
He was father of the late gen. Fisk. Magnalia, 
Bentley''s description of Salem. 

Fisk Nathan, D. D. was born at Weston, 
Sept. 6, 1733; graduated at Harvard College, 
1754 ; and ordained pastor of the third church in 
Brookfield, May 28, 1758. He received his diplo- 
ma of D. D. 1792. He was a critical and learned 
divine ; his discourses were calculated to give in- 
struction, and allure men to the love of religion. 
They are among the best that have been published 
in this country. Though he was not a popular 
preacher, yet his manner was pathetick, and he 
gained the affections of his people while he grew in 
their esteem. He was an example of the virtues he 
preached to others, and all who knew him loved 



:200 F R A 

him. In simplicity and godly sincerity he had his 
conversation in the world. Had he not been so 
modest and unassuming, he wouhl have made a 
greater figure among the celebrated characters of 
the age. In the circle where he moved he had great 
influence ; all the neighbouring clergy looked up 
to him as a father and a friend. Among the stars 
of the churches he appeared with a pure and serene 
lustre. His path was that of the " rising light which 
shinethmore and more unto the perfect day." This 
text was chosen by him for the last discourse he ever 
preached, and itmust be peculiarly impressive to those 
who knew the character of the man. After preach- 
ing on the Lord's day, Nov. 24, 1799, he passed 
the evening in company, appeared cheerful and in 
good health, went to bed apparently well, but dur- 
ing his sleep, death came as a friend to remove him 
to the mansions of eternal rest. 

Dr. Fisk did not confine himself to theological 
publications ; he wrote a number of essays in the 
Massachusetts Spy under the title of the " Worces- 
ter speculator," and also under the signature of a 
*' Neighbour ;" and in the Massachusetts Maga- 
zine under the title of the " General Observer;" 
also» the philanthropist in twenty numbers.* 

Franklin Benjamin, L L. D. F. R. S. was 
born in Boston, January 27, 1706. His father was 
in a humble occupation, but industrious, sober and 
very respectable among his fellow citizens. The 
newspaper which announces his death, represents 
him as modest and unassuming. " Though he 
courted not the admiration of men, yet all who 
knew him admired him." He constantly attended 

* His other printed works are, an historical sermon on the 
settlement and s^rowth of Orookfield, 1775 ; a fast sermon, 1776 ; 
a funeral sermon on Mr. losluiu Spencer, 1778 ; an oration on 
the capture of lord Cornwallis, 1781 ; a sermon at the funeral of 
Mr. Josiah Hobbes, who was killed by lightning;, April 24, 1774 ; 
a volume of sermons on various subjects, 1794; the Dudleian 
lecture sermon, 1796. All his essays were collected and publish- 
ed in two volumes, styled, the Moral Monitor, 1801. 



F R A 201 

piiblick worship, and brought up his children in 
the ways of piety. He had a particular desire to 
give Benjamin a college education, but wanted the 
means. He therefore put him as an apprentice to 
the elder brother, J Franklin, who then published 
the Boston Gazette. B. Green had printed the Bos- 
ton Newsletter from April 24, 1704. Franklin 
printed the first No. of the Gazette, Dec. 21, 
1719. The very next week Bradford published 
the Mercury at Philadelphia. These were the first 
newspapers printed in America Soon after this, 
Franklin delivered over to S. Kiieeland the Gazette, 
and emitted another paper, called the Coiirant, which 
became famous from the literary effusions of his 
brother Benjamin. When he was only a lad, he 
wrote essays which were sprightly and satirical, and 
of a tendency to gain subscribers Young Frank- 
lin was fond of books, and acquired more know- 
ledge than is common at that age ; and according 
to the account which he gives of himself, was as 
wise in his own conceit, as he was in the estima- 
tion of others. The life of an author written by 
himself generally displays more vanity than wisdom. 
Such talents, however, as Franklin possessed could 
not be concealed, had he not been disposed to 
trumpet his own fame. He not only brought him- 
self into notice by his writings, but distinguished 
himself among the wits, free thinkers, and merry 
wags of the town. By this conduct he forfeited 
the friendship of several gentlemen who were dis- 
posed to serve him ; who loved his family, but 
were the friends of virtue and religion. He was aU 
ways the head of every deistical club, with whom 
he associated. His zeal against the religious part 
of the community, as well as his superiour genius, 
gave him a claim to the first place of distinction. 
While he remained in this country, his chief com- 
panion was Ralphy who afterward went to England, 
and became a celebrated political writer. Pope 
gives him a rank amongdunces; but lordMelcombe 
c c 



202 F R A 

speaks of him. as holding the best pen among the 
opposers of the administration. The literary repu- 
tation of Ralph is buried with him ; but Franklin 
shines among the most brilliant characters of the 
age. His works have given his name uncommon 
celebrity ; and his publick services will never be 
forgotten in his own country. While he shines with 
such a peculiar lustre, we regret that his principles 
and moral sentiments in early life were not more 
worthy of praise. One lesson is to be learned from 
his memoirs : never to put great confidence in a 
man's friendship and promises, who is destitute of 
religious principles. The conduct of his bosom 
friends, who were libertines and without religion, 
almost persuaded Franklin to be a christian. In 
every instance, where he trusted them, they de- 
ceived him, and he gives a warning to others from 
his own sad experience. He left Boston when he 
was only 17 years of age. He went to Philadelphia, 
and was introduced to gov. Keith, who seemed dis- 
posed to patronise him. By his advice he took a 
voyage to England, that he might complete himself 
in every part of his business. The governour as- 
sured him of his assistance, which the young man 
vainly hoped would be greatly to his profit ; but in 
this he was disappointed. The governour was a 
man of the world, obliging in his manners, but with- 
out hdelity in his dealings. Finding therefore that 
he must depend upon his own exertions, young Mr. 
Franklin would not be idle, nor had he a disposi- 
tion to sink under misfortune. His mind was al- 
ways active, and with such a spirit of industry and 
capacity for every kind of work, it is no wonder 
that he met with success, if not equal to his wishes, 
yet beyond what common men would expect He 
deserves the greater credit when we view him a 
youth, in a strange land, fond of pleasure, and 
exposed to every kind of temptation. In 1726, he 
returned to Philadelphia. He soon obtained em- 
ployment, and by his prudence and economy, as 



FR A 205 

well as habitual industry, gained a subsistence, and 
in a very few years increased his property. In this 
city, he instituted a club for the discussion of po- 
litical and philosophical questions, which were well 
calculated to try and improve their minds. These 
are printed in his works. In 1732, he published 
*' poor Kichard's almanack." This is full of pru- 
dential maxims, economical hints, and good advice. 
We see in every page something congenial to the 
humour of the man. How far such maxims influ- 
ence the generality of readers, is not easy to say. 
If they prevent youth from being extravagant or 
idle, they are useful ; but they hang on the lips of 
some, as an excuse for their avarice. Profusion is 
not generosity, nor should a prudent man be parsi- 
monious. The wise sayings of " poor Richard," 
have been repeated, and copied, and printed in ma- 
ny works. They appear in another form, from 
their author, in a book entitled. "The way to 
wealth." 

Mr. Franklin was chosen master of the post of- 
fice in Philadelphia in 1737. The year before he 
had been clerk to the general court. He was em- 
ployed in much publick business, and in many use- 
ful projects. In 1731, he founded the famous li- 
brary of Philadelphia. In 1738, he improved the 
police of the city, by organizing companies to se- 
cure their property against fire. It is said this 
was the origin of all the fire clubs which are now in 
every city. His patriotick zeal was also discover- 
ed in the year 1744, when a very serious dispute 
happened between the proprietary interest, and that 
of the people, concerning the forces which were to 
be raised for their common defence. He proposed 
a method which seemed well calculated to end the 
dispute. It was a voluntary association ; and ten 
thousand joined in it as subscribers. Other remark- 
able services might be mentioned which gave Dr. 
Franklin a high character among philanthropists. 
But as a philosopher he gained the most notice, 



204 F R A 

and applause from mankind. He began his " elec- 
trical experiments" about the year 1747. These 
manifested an inventive genius, and he had all the 
activity and perseverance necessary for any investi- 
gation. From studying the properties of nature he 
discovered a resemblance between lightning and 
the electrick fluid. He placed pointed metallick 
conductors upon the tops of houses \a ith rods that 
went into the ground, that the passing clouds might 
discharge their fire, and do no injury to the build- 
ing. Some physical reasons, and certain religious 
scruples, were at first raised against their use ; but 
soon the metallick conductors became common in 
North America, and were adopted in other coun- 
tries. 

His other meteorological observations are also 
valuable, and are proofs of industry, as well as gen- 
ius. He could readily turn his mind to any thing 
useful, and delighted to make his philosophical ex- 
periments subservient to the convenience of com- 
mon life ; in which he is as much to be praised, as 
for enlarging the bounds of science. 

Among the writers upon politicks, and the per- 
sons who have acted an important part in the revo- 
lution of their country. Dr. Franklin has been high- 
ly esteemed, and conspicuously distinguished. He 
preferred the busy tumult of the world to the " calm 
delightsof mild philosophy." In 1747,he waschos- 
en representative for the city of Philadelphia. In 
that assembly he exerted all his influence in oppo- 
sing the proprietary claims. In 1754, he proposed 
a plan for the general government of the colonies, 
"which did not meet the approbation of the British 
court ; nor of several eminent characters on this 
side the Atlantick. In 1757, he was sent to En- 
gland as agent for the province of Pennsylvania, and 
he succeeded in his application to the British court, 
that the proprietary lands should be taxed for the 
publick service. He was also employed in the a- 
gency for Jersey, Maryland and Georgia. At this 



F R A 205 

time he was elected a fellow of the royal society of 
London ; and received the degree of L L. D. from 
several universities. He was a member of all the 
celebrated academies of arts and sciences in Europe, 
and was also elected president of the philosophical 
society in Philadelphia. In 1762, he returned home, 
and received thanks for his services ; but was again 
appointed agent. We read of his conversation with 
Mr. Grenville concerning the stamp act, and his 
exertions to prevent any act passing in the parlia- 
ment of Great Britain to raise a revenue from the 
colonies. When the stamp act was repealed, he 
had more leisure than he had enjoyed for many 
years, and spent the time in travelling over several 
parts of Europe. 

In 1774, Dr. F. was employed by the house 
of Massachusetts to present a petition, that the 
govern our and lieutenant governonr might be re- 
moved from their offices. Accordino; to his own 
account, the privy council were not disposed to do 
justice to himself, or his cause. Mr. Bollan, who 
was agent for the council of Massachusetts, and had 
been a lawyer of eminence in this country, desired 
to be heard ; but was silenced because he was only 
agent for the branch which did not join in this pros- 
ecution. Finding tliat Mr. Wedderburne appear- 
ed for the governours, he desired to have council ; 
but at the same time, was willing their lordships 
should give a decision merely from the papers with- 
out having avvord said upon the subject. The bu- 
siness was deferred till another day, and he then ap- 
peared with Mr. Dunning and Mr. Lee, who did 
all in their power to support the petition. Mr. 
Wedderburne on the other hand, threw every kind 
of abuse on the house of representatives, and their 
agent, mingled with encomiums upon their gov- 
ernours. " The favourite part of his invective," 
says the Dr. " was levelled at your agent, who 
stood there the butt of his ribaldrv and invective 
for near an hour, not a single lord adverting to the 



206 F R A 

indecency or impropriety of treating a publick mes- 
senger in so ignominious a manner, who was only 
as the person delivering your petition, with the con- 
sideration of which no part of hh conduct had any 
concern."* After his return to America, he was 
chosen a member of Congress. In this body he 
did not make any great figure. But he was sent in 
a publick capacity to France, and signed two 
treaties of alliance and commerce with that nation, 
one dated Jan. 30, the other Feb. 6, 1778. 

He was one of the commissioners who signed the 
provisional articles of peace in 1783. It was fortu- 
nate for New England that Mr. Adams and Mr. 
Jay were with him. Their talents as statesmen, 
and their particular services at this time saved these 
parts of the union from poverty and humiliation. 
This, the best friends of the old sage were obliged 
to acknowledge. 

In 1785, Dr. Franklin returned to Philadelphia, 
and was appointed president of the supreme execu- 
tive council. 

He was one of the members of the convention 
•who framed the constitution of the United States. 
He mingled not in the debates, but made a speech 
at the close of the business, which did not discover 
his talents as a statesman. It was time for him to 
retire from publick business. He had arrived at an 
age when human infirmities increase, and the " ve- 
ry strength is labour and sorrow." He died, April, 
1790, aged 84. 

Dr. Franklin never professed any religion. His 
friend president Stiles pressed him upon the sub- 
ject, and wished to have him say he was a believer 
in Christianity, but the philosopher evaded the ques- 
tion. He said that he had been led to think favoura- 
bly of the sentiments of Dr. Kippis, Dr. Priestley, 

* Letter to Thomas Cashing, esq. speaker of the house of re- 
presentatives, Feb. 15, 1774, in Historical Collections, volume iii. 
See also Dr. Priestley's letter, giving a particular account of 
Wedderburne's speech, of v^hich he was a hearer. 



F U L 207 

and others, with whom he had been acquainted in 
England. Their opinions did not bear the puritan- 
ick stamp, and he doubtless respected them more 
as philosophers than ministers of the gospel. 

Dr. Franklin never published any large work ; 
but his various tracts make up three large octavo 
volumes. It is said that in society he was senten- 
tious, but not fluent ; a listener rather than a talker; 
an informing rather than a pleasing companion ; im- 
patient of interruption. He often mentioned the 
custom of the Indians, who remain sometime 
silent before they give an answer to a question they 
have heard attentively, unlike some of the politest 
societies in Europe where a sentence can scarcely 
be finished without interruption. 

He made certain bequests and donations by his 
will, which discover his peculiarity of temper, and 
a mind swayed by vanity, as well as under the in- 
fluence of minute calculation. 

His epitaph is an instance of oddity, but is inge- 
nious. He made it to be put on his tombstone. 

The body of 

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, printer, 

(like the cover of an old book, 

its contents torn out, 

and stript of its lettering and gilding) 

lies here food for worms : 

yet the work itself shall not be lost, 

but will, as he believed, appear once more 

in a new 

and more beautiful edition, 

corrected and amended 

by 

THE AUTHOR. 

Fuller Samuel, one of the worthies who came 
©ver to New Plymouth. He was chosen deacon of 
Mr. Robinson's church, with Mr. Carver, who was 
afterwards governour of the plantation. As it was 
determined that the pastor should remain at Ley- 
den, they sent Mr. Brewster, their elder, with the 
two deacons, who were qualified to instruct the 
people, and lead in the publick services, Mr. Ful= 



208 F U L 

ler sailed from Holland, July 2t, 1620. He took a 
servant boy nith him, who died on the passage, 
Nov. 6, a few days before they made the land of 
Cape Cod. When gov. Carver died, they chose 
another deacon, but Mr, Fuller's services were in 
very special demand, both for the souls and bodies 
of the people. Beside his duty in the church, which 
he was active in performing, he was eminently use- 
ful as a surgeon and physician. Nor did he con- 
fine his benevolent offices to the inhabitants of New 
Plymouth, and to the aboriginals of the country, but 
readily gave his assistance to the people of Naum- 
keake after Mr. Endicot came to that part of Massa= 
chusetts Bay. Several of the people died of " scur- 
vy s and other distempers," and many were subject- 
ed to diseases arising from unwholsome diet and 
want of proper accommodations. Having no phy- 
sician among themselves, it was happy for those 
planters that Plymouth could supply them with one 
so able as Mr. Fuller, who visited them at the re- 
quest of Mr. Endicot, and met with great success 
in his practice. According to Mr. Prince, he went 
there more than once. He says, '' gov. Bradford and 
Mr. Morton from him, seem to mistake in blend- 
ing the several sicknesses atNaumkeake of 1628 and 
1629 together, and writing as if Dr. Fuller first 
went thither to help in the sickness introduced 
there by the ships in 1629 ; whereas by gov. Endi- 
cot's letter of May 11, 1629, it appears that Dr. 
Fuller had been there to help them, which was 
above a month before the ship arrived in 29." 

When he returned from Salem to Plymouth Mr. 
Endicot wrote to gov, Bradford a letter of thanks^ 
speaking highly in praise of the physician, and also 
his hearty concurrence with their church in its form 
and discipline. From which it is evident that the 
conversation of Dr. Fuller had some effect upon his 
religious opinions, for there was a difference of sen- 
timent before this interview, and a jealousy lest the 
Plymouth church should exercise a jurisdiction 
over the church in Salem. 



GAG 209 

Gage Thomas, governour of Massachusetts, 
1774 and 1775, was brother of lord viscount Gage, 
and an officer of distinction in the British army. 
He came into America as a lieut. col. of Braddock's 
forces, and when that unfortunate general was 
wounded, he, with another officer, carried him off the 
field. He acquired some credit by this action, be- 
cause the confusion was so general, and the flight 
so disorderly, that the body might have been man- 
gled by a savage enemy, or exposed to every kind 
of indignity. In 1758, Mr. Gage had a colonel's 
commission. In 1760, after the reduction of Can- 
ada, he was governour of Montreal; and the ten 
succeeding years was commander in chief of the 
British forces in North America. The greater part 
of the time, he resided in the city of New York. 
He paid a visit to Boston in the autumn of 1768, 
where the 14th and 29th regiments were stationed, 
with a view to know the state of the town, and to 
see that proper accommodations were made for the 
troops. A handsome address from the members of the 
council was presented to him, in which they say, 
" it affords a general satisfaction that your excellen- 
cy has visited the province. Your own inquiries 
will satisfy you, that though there have been disor- 
ders in the town of Boston, some of them did not 
merit notice, and that such as did, have been mag- 
nified beyond the truth." To this address he gave 
a polite answer ; but at the same time wrote to the 
ministry a bitter invective against the council, the 
people of the town, and province. His answer to 
the address of the council is dated Oct. 28 ; the let- , 
ter to the ministry, Oct. 30. This letter is totally 
destitute of that candour, which the people had al- 
ways connected with the general's character. At the 
date of it, he had been in town about a fortnight ; 
at which time from his own knowledge and obser- 
vation, he could not gain such an acquaintance with 
the character and disposition of the council, and of 
the people in general, as to authorize him to say so 

D d 



210 GAG 

many harsh things concerning them, uiiich at the 
same time are as unjust, as they are rash and pre- 
cipitate. The similitude of sentiment in this letter, 
and the letters of Bernard, leaves no room to doubt 
whence the matter of it was furnished. 

Such are the remarks made by our whig politi- 
cians on the general's letter.* It was also observed 
that, as the general thought proper to step out of 
his line, and give characters, a regard for the pub- 
lick, and especially for himself should have induced 
him to give such as were consistent with truth. 

In the year 1774, it was his fortune to succeed 
Hutchinson in the government of Massachusetts ; 
and to command the troops quartered in the pro- 
vince, to force the people into a compliance with 
unconstitutional and oppressive acts of parliament. 
If there had been no prejudice imbibed against 
the man, they could not but feel resentment at 
having a governour appointed with such authori- 
ty over them. It is no wonder therefore that their 
opposition to his administration was so fixed and 
violent. His polite address and easy manners, 
however, gained him friends ; and it was fre- 
quently observed that in good times, he would 
have made a worthy governour. This might be 
the case ; but the opinion could not be formed by 
observations upon his managing the affairs of the 
province. He acted with the advice of men who 
wished to deprive the people of all their civil privi- 
leges, and to make the governour of Massachusetts 
as despotick as the Dey of one of the Barbary pow- 
ers. The port bill was under consideration of the 
Boston town meeting when governour Gage arriv- 
ed; and it was more particularly the province of the 
admiral to put this into execution. 

But what were the prominent traits of his admin- 
istration ? 

• Letters of gov. Bernard, gen. Gage, his majesty's council to 
the earl of Hillsboiough, v/iih an appendix, containing diverse 
proceedings referred to in said letters. 



GAG 211 

" He negatived thirteen provincial counsellors 
chosen at the first election after his arrival. 

" Adjourned the court to Salem, that he might 
reduce them more easily to his arbitrary measures. 

" He summoned the mandamus council to their 
scats, in violation of the provincial charters. 

" He attempted to put in execution an act of 
parliament "for regulating the government," which 
entirely altered the charter constitution of the pro- 
vince ; and another act, authorizing the governour, 
in case any person is indicted for murder or any 
other capital offence in aid of magistracy, &c. to 
send such person (if the governour approves not of 
their having a trial in Boston) to any other colony, 
or to Great Britain to be tried. 

" He issued a proclamation, forbidding any of 
the inhabitants of the province from signing a paper 
called a solemn league and covenant for the pur- 
poses of non-importation and non-consumption of 
British goods. 

'•' He sent troops to seize the provh\cial powder 
in the magazine at Charlestown. 

'* He tried to prevent the Essex county meeting 
at Salem ; and ordered troops from the village to as- 
sist in dispersing said meeting. 

" He broke up the ground on Boston neck, for 
entrenchments and fortifications, which v/as an im- 
pediment to passengers going to, and coming from, 
the country towns. 

" By a proclamation he discharged the members 
of the general court, to deprive the province of a 
representative body. 

" He sent troops to Marshfield and Salem ; and 
attempted to seize cannon and other military stores. 

" The several avenues to the town of Boston he 
ordered to be guarded by centinels from his troops, 
and reduced the town to the state of a garrison. 

'• He altered the terms of agreement with the 
town, as a condition of the citizens removing out of 
it, after they had complied with their part of the 



212 GAY 

condition ; and detained articles he had previously 
promised should be removed by the owners, and 
caused many impediments in the manner of their 
removal. 

" In the month of June, 1775, he proclaimed 
Massachusetts to be in a state of rebellion, the 
provincial congress having in the month preceding 
renoimced the government of gen. Gage. In his 
proclamation he proscribed the patriots, S. Adams 
and Hancock. 

" Under his orders Bunker Hill battle was fought, 
and Charlestown burnt," Sjlc. &c. 

All these transactions took place during his short 
administration. 

Having obtained leave to depart from America, 
he sailed from Boston, October 10th, 1775, and 
passed the remainder of his days in retirement. 
We hear of no peculiar honours conferred upon 
him in his own country ; and here, if men did not 
feel an abhorrence of his conduct, it was because 
they viewed him with contempt. 

Gay Ebenezer, D. D. pastor of the first church 
in Hingham, was born in Dedham, of parents, who 
descended from the first settlers of that ancient 
town. He made early progress in literature, and 
was sent from the town school to Harvard College, 
where he was graduated, 17 14. He was ordained over 
the church in Hingham, 1718. When he was a young 
man he obtained the notice of gov. Burnet, who 
was a good judge of characters, and particularly 
fond of men of letters. It is a saying of his, handed 
down from the last generation, that among the cler- 
gy of Massachusetts, Mr. Bradstreet of Charles- 
town, and Mr. Gay of Hingham had the most eru- 
dition. One of these left no publication as evidence 
of his talents. The other printed many sermons, 
chiefly occasional. During the long life he passed 
on earth, very few works, except sermons, were 
emitted from the presses of New England. What 
encouragement could be given to talents in a coun- 



GAY 213 

try just rising into notice ? Many a flower has 
dropped its leaves in this American wilderness, 
which, transplanted in some fair garden, would 
have grown and flourished. The clergy of this 
country were formerly very dependent, though 
treated with great respect by their people. They 
had to labour hard in the fields of this world, as 
well as to do their duty to God's husbandry, that 
souls " might not wither, but have their fruit in love 
and good works." They were, however, happy and 
contented with their lot : though not in easy or af- 
fluent circumstances they were above want. If 
they had a thirst for knowledge, they suffered, be- 
cause few men had libraries, nor were many books 
imported upon any subject but law, physick and 
divinity. If no professional men were in their par- 
ishes, they could not gain much information. Dr. 
Gay was as well situated as most of his brethren ; 
and he had great resources in his own mind. Among 
his parochial connections were several gentlemen in 
conspicuous stations, and capable of improving the 
minds of each other. When he was 85 years old, 
he preached upon this text, Joshua, xiv. 10, mark- 
ing the number of his years — " I am this day four- 
score and five years old." He says, sixty three 
years have I spent in the work of the ministry 
among you. One hundred and forty six years ago, 
your forefathers came with their pastor and settled 
in this place. I am the third in the pastorate of this 
church which has not been two years vacant. Scarce 
any parish but hath had more in the office in the 
same space of time. The people of this town have been 
steady to their own ministers living to old age ; 
have not been given to change, nor with itching- 
ears have heaped to themselves teachers. I bless 
God who disposed my lot among a people, with 
whom I have lived in great peace eleven years 
longer than either of my predecessors. I have only 
to wish that my labours had been as profitable as 
they have been acceptable to them. I retain a grate- 



2U GAY 

ful sense of the kindnesses (injuries I remember 
none) I have received trom them. While I have 
reaped of their carnal things to my comfortable 
subsistence, it has been my great concern to sow 
unto them spiritual things, which might spring- 
up in a harvest of eternal blessings. That their af- 
fections to me, as their pastor, have continued from 
fathers to children, and children's children, hath been 
thanktully observed by me ; and should have been 
improved as an advantage and incentive to do them 
(in return of love for love) all possible good. It is 
but little I can do now in the work to which I am 
kept up so late in the evening of my da^s," &c. 
This sermon is styled the " old man's calender ;" 
and is a very interesting discourse, though not 
equal in composition to those he printed in young- 
er life. *• His election sermon, 1745 ;" the sermon 
*' before the convention of ministers, 1746," and at 
" Dudleian lecture, 1759," have been much cele- 
brated. The funeral sermon " upon Mr. Hancock," 
father of the late governour, and two upon "the 
death of Dr. Mayhew" are among the best occa- 
sional discourses. 

Mr. Gay received his diploma of doctor in divin- 
ity, in 1785, from the university where he had his 
education. 

This great and good man died, Sabbath day, 
March 8, 1787, in the 91st year of his age, and 
69th of his ministry. The vigour of his mind con- 
tinued to this remarkable age. He was preparing 
to go through the labours of the day when he died. 
*' His hidulgent Lord, as it has been well expressed, 
" when he was about to enter upon the service of his 
sanctuary here below, called him to the more sub- 
lime enjoyments of his temple above."* 

'• His publications, beside those mentioneil above were, a ser- 
mon at the ordination of Mr. Joseph Green, May 12, 1725 j 
there was a high encomium upon this sermon by Mr. Foxcroft of 
Boston; a sermon upon the arrival of gov. Belcher, 1730 ; a 
sermon at the ordination of Ebenezer Gay, jun. at SufTield, 1742 ; 



G E E 215 

Gee Joshua, rev. minister of the second church 
in Boston, was colleague with the famous Cotton 
Mather. He was born in Boston, the son of a rep- 
utable tradesman, and graduated at Harvard Col- 
lege, A. D. 1717; ordained in November, 1723. 
His talents were not of the popular kind, though he 
was fervent in spirit, zealous in promoting the great 
revival of religion in 1742, 3. His genius was pro- 
found; his learning considerable ; his theological at- 
tainments very superiour. His sermons are well 
composed and argumentative, and they, who were 
intimate with him, speak of his talents for conversa- 
tion as very uncommon. He indulged a kind of 
literary indolence, and preferred to converse rather 
than to write. Yet he never delivered in the pul- 
pit any thing like an extemporaneous address ; and 
was reluctant to print his discourses, when urged, 
because he must finish them with some labour. He 
was bigotted in his opinions, which were in favour 
of high supralapsarian doctrines. He was some- 
what bitter in controversy. This appears by his 
attack upon the convention, which gave a testimony 
against the errors prevailing in 1745, and the spirit 
which had been too much encouraged, when itinerant 
preachers and fanatical priests disturbed the church- 
es. His passions led him to imprudence in his 
ministerial conduct. During his ministry a divi- 

ofDr. Mayhewat Boston, 1747; Mr. Derby at Scltuate, 1751 ; 
Mr Carpenter at Swanzey, 1755; Mr. Hawson at Yarmouth, 
1755 ; Mr. Bunker Gay at Hinsdale, 1763 ; Mr. Gannet, Cum- 
berland, Nova Scotia, 1768; a sermon at the annual ihanksgiv- 
in?;, 1770. 

In a note of Dr. Shute's sermon at liis funeral, is an account of 
the ministers of Hintjham. — Rev. Peter Hobart, who came from 
England with his church, was the first minister, and settled, 
1635, and died, January 20, 1679. Rev. Jolm Norton, ordained, 
Nov 27, 1678 ; died, October 3, 1716. Vacant one year and six 
months. (During this time the church invited Mr. Samuel Fiske 
to be their pastor, who gave an answer in the negative, expecting 
then to be settled in tiie New South, Boston.) June II, 1718, 
Dr. Gay was ordained. Three ministers in 152 years, and 
through the whole of the time, vacant hardly a year and six 
months. 



216 GIB 

ftion ivas made in the church : nearly one half sep- 
arated with his colleague. (Mr. Samuel Mather,) 
and built a church in the neighbourhood, where the 
latter continued till his death in 1785. Mr. Gee 
died, 1748, May 22, having been consumptive seve- 
ral years. 

His printed discourses were, a small volume up- 
on Luke xiii. 24 ; a funeral sermon on Dr. C. Ma- 
ther, &c. He also printed observations on the con- 
vention of ministers, beside several political pam- 
phlets. 

Mr. Gee married the daughter of the rev. Mr. 
Rogers of Portsmouth. She was a most amiable 
and accomplished woman. She died, 1730, aged 
29. A beautiful sermon was printed upon the oc- 
casion by rev. P. Thacher, the only discourse that 
great man ever published, except the election ser- 
mon, 1726.* 

Gibbons Edward, major general, was one of 
the first planters of Massachusetts Bay. He was 
one of those enterprising young men, who settled 
at Mount Wollaston, but whether he joined with 
Morton in all his mad pranks, we are not able to 
say. Most probably he went to Salem for the sake 
of better company. He was at the ordination of 
Mr. Higginson, and it affected him so much to see 
a church formed, and a whole congregation wor- 
shipping God in the beauties of holiness, that he ex- 
pressed a desire to join with them. They chose to 
have some evidence of his sincerity, but encouraged 
his good intentions. He went afterwards to Bos- 

• This biot^raphical sketch of Mr. Gee was written before Dr. 
Chauncy's list of famous men was published. The Dr. shows 
rnuch candour to a man who in his writings and conversation en- 
deavoured to injure his character,and was bitter against every one 
who had liberal views of Christianity. One observation ought 
perhaps to be mentioned, which the late Dr. Chauncy often made, 
and which is to be found in a letter to an eminent correspondent, 
*' that it was happy Mr. Gee had an indolent turn ; for with such 
fiery zeal and such talents, he would have mjde continual conten- 
tion in the churches. 



GIB 217 

ton, joined Mr. Wilson's church, and became one 
of the most useful, active and worthy men in the 
colony. In the year 1644, when the militia was or- 
ganized, he was chosen commanding officer of the 
regiment in Suffolk. There was a regiment for 
every county ; one in Suffolk, one in Middlesex, one 
in Essex, and one in Northfolk, which included the 
towns of Haverhill, Salisbury, Hampton, &c. on the 
banks of the Merrimack, or beyond it. The chief 
officer instead of having a colonel's commission, was 
styled only sergeant major. A major general, was 
appointed over the whole, as related in the life of 
Mr. Dudlev, who was the first in the office ; then, Mr. 
Endicot, and the third was major Gibbons. In 
Johnson's annals of Massachusetts for 1644, after 
mentioning the several regiments, over each of 
which " the commander is only a sergeant major," 
the first chosen to the office, says he, was major 
Gibbons, now major general, a man of resolute 
Spirit, bold as a lion, being wholly tutored up in 
New England discipline, very generous and for- 
ward to promote all military matters, his forts arc 
well contrived, and batteries strong and in good re- 
pair, Sec* 

• Johnson's annals, are continued to the year 1 652. The book 
is called " wonder working providences of Sion's Saviour in New 
England." Mr. Prince discovered their author to be Mr. John- 
son of VVoburn. The book contains much valuable information of 
the early settlement of Massachusetts. And he is very particu- 
lar in narrating the organization of the militia in 1644. As the 
book is scarce and curious it may gratify some persons to know, 
who were officers in the first regiment in Suffolk, which shall be 
given in his style and manner. 

After speaking of major Gibbons having his forts in good re- 
pair, his artillery well mounted and cleanly kept, half cannon, cul- 
verins and sakers, as also field pieces of brass very ready for ser- 
vice, he says, " his own company,led by ca^t lieut.Sarag, are very 
complete in arms, and many of them disciplined in the military 
garden, beside their ordinary trainings ; the captains under him 
are capt. Humphry Atherton of the band in Dorchester; a very 
lively courageous man, with his stout and valiant lieut. Clap, 
strong for the truth ; of the band of Roxbury, capt. Pritchard and 
ensign Johnson ; of the band of Weymouth, capt. Perkins, and 
E e 



218 GIB 

Gen. Gibbons was not only high in military rank, 
but was also one of the assistants ; to which place 
he was elected in 1644, and continued many years. 
In 1645, he was sent, at the head of the New Eng- 
land forces, against the sons of Canonicus, who did 
not inherit their father's prudence, but were op- 
pressive and arbitrary, and causedcontentions among 
the neighbouring tribes. They were, however, so 
frightened at the preparations of war, when they 
found the white people in hostile array, that they 
sent a certain number of their chief nobility to the 
commissioners of the united colonies, who were 
then sitting at Boston, to treat concerning a peace. 
The commissioners took advantage of their situa- 
tion, and made them pay a part of the charges which 
such preparations had occasioned ; and to give four 
of their sons, for hostages, till they had paid what 
was demanded. 

Major general Gibbons was in the office till he 
died, and was succeeded by major Sedgwick. We 
would observe, however, that this high command- 
er was chosen annually by the freemen, while the 
other military officers were chosen for life. The 

his proper and active lieut. Torrey ; of the bund of Hingham, 
capt. Allen ; of the band of Dedham, capt. Eleazer Lusher, one 
of a nimble and active spirit, strongly affected to the ways of 
truth ; of the band of Braintree, capt. VVilliam Tyng ; these be- 
long to the regiment of SuflTolk." He then goes on to describe 
the regiment of Essex under sergeant major Robert Sedgwick, 
stout and active in all the feats of war, nursed up in London's ar- 
tillery, and furthered with sixteen years experience in New Eng- 
land's exact theory, besides the help of a very good head piece, 
being a frequent instructor of our artillery men, 8cc. He says 
likewise, " that surveyor general Johnson, one well qualified for 
the work, overlooked the whole, and often reminded the general 
court to keep a good supply ;" that several persons contributed 
largely to provide ammunition ; the rev. Dr. Wilson gave gene- 
rously a thousand pounds, Sec. that a castle was built on an island 
upon a passage into the bay : as the country had no lime, but 
what is burntAvith oyster shells, it fell to decay a few years after. 
It was built again at the expence of the six towns, the rest af the 
country furnishing a small matter towards it. The first com- 
mander was one capt. Davenport, S^c. 



GOO 219 

people assembled once a year to elect a governour, 
lieut. governour, assistants and major general. Ve- 
ry few alterations were made in their arrangements 
till officers were appointed by the crown, and the 
old charter taken away. 

GooKiN Daniel, major general, was at first a 
planter in Virginia, but preferred to spend his days 
in New England, where he found a people more 
congenial to his views, principles and manners. 
He became a freeman of Massachusetts in 1644, 
and had a captain's commission in the regiment of 
Middlesex. " He had formerly been a Kentish 
soldier, and a very forward man to advance marshal 
discipline, and withal the truths of Christ."* 

In 1652, he was chosen assistant, and was as 
ready to execute justice and maintain peace in the 
province, as to fight the enemies of his country. 
In 1656, he left New England, and visited Crom- 
well's court, who employed him to persuade the in- 
habitants of Masssachusetts to remove and settle 
Jamaica, which had lately been taken from the 
crown of Spain. In this he met with no success^ 
In 1662, he was appointed one of the licensers of the 
printing press in Cambridge. He was of the high 
republican party in politicks, and stood firm to the 
old charter, unwilling to yield the rights and liber- 
ties of the people, when they were required to do it, 
by the arbitrary measures of king Charles II. He 
would rather face the storm and risque every dan- 
ger. He gave his reasons in writing, which were 
lodged in the publick records. Mr. Gookin was as 
conspicuous for his piety as his morals. He set a 
high value upon the religious freedom, which the 
first settlers enjoyed, and for which they had left 
their own country to dwell in an American wilder- 
ness. Perhaps, he was too rigid in his notions ; 
perhaps, his religious and political sentiments were 
tinctured with party spirit ; but his lively and ac- 
dve turn stimulated him to noble and generous ac- 

* Jolinson, 



220 GOO 

tions. We ought always to distinguish betwecfi 
enthusiasm and fanaticism. The one will stimulate 
a warrior to destroy villages, and even the lives ot 
men ; the other will rouse the patriot, and excite 
the philanthropist or christian to do benevolent ac- 
tions. Such a zealous, such an upright magistrate 
was gen. Gookin. In 1675, he boldly stepped for- 
vrard to support the cause of the praying Indians, 
whom the people hated and despised, merely be- 
cause they were Indians ; and whom the magistrates 
were ready to persecute even unto death. Major 
Gookin endeavoured to calm the ebullition of their 
passions. He was assisted by Mr. Eliot ; and they 
both suffered every thing from the obloquy and 
scorn of those, who ought to have respected their 
good intentions, and who were convinced after- 
wards that they acted a wise and honest part. 

Major Gookin had been superintendant of all the 
Indians, who had submitted to the provincial gov- 
ernment. He knew more about them than all the 
other magistrates. So far from joining in the war 
against the English, many of them were objects of 
pity, and some were brought into distress by their 
liriendship for them, and attachment to Christianity* 

Mr. Gookin was the last major general under the 
6ld charter. This post of honour was continued 
under the charter of William and Mary ; but the 
officer was not chosen by the freemen. After Dud- 
ley, Endicott and Gibbons had adorned the station, 
imajor Sedgwick was chosen. Major Atherton suc- 
ceeded him ; then Daniel Dennison, John Leverett 
and Daniel Gookin. 

Our worthy magistrate appears very respectable 
as an author. A considerable work of his is 
published in the first volume of the collections of 
the Massachusetts historical society. It is a very 
particular account of the Indians in New England, 
with a biographical sketch of the writer from an ac- 
curate pen, to which we are indebted for several 
facts. He had prepared a much larger work, th^ 



G O R 221 

kistory of New England, which was left in mss. but 
which probably is lost. 

Gen. Gookin died in 1687, an old man, whose 
days were filled with usefulness. He left no estate ; 
his widow was in such indigent circumstances, 
that Mr. Eliot solicited the hon. Mr. Boyle to be- 
stow upon her ten pounds.* He left a number of 
children. His eldest son, Daniel, who graduated 
in 1669, was minister at Sherburne, and a preacher 
to the Indians at Natick. His second son, Nathan- 
iel, who graduated, 1675, was minister of Cam- 
bridge, and fellow of Harvard College. He died, 
August 7, 1692, in the 34th year of his age, and 
tenth of his ministry. Mr. G. minister of Hamp- 
ton, was the son of the minister of Cambridge. He 
was graduated, 1703. He also had a son, Nathan- 
iel, who graduated, 1731, who was settled in the 
same town, in a parish called North Hill. And a 
grandson capt. Daniel Gookin, who was an officer 
in the American army during the revolutionary 
Avar. Collections of Historical Society. Hutchinson, 

Gorges Sir Ferdinando, govcrnour of the 
fort and island of Plymouth in Devonshire, and one 

* The following extract from the " Journal of the commission- 
ers of the united colonies," shows Mr. G. received something 
during his life from the corporation de propag. fide. It is a let- 
ter dated, London, March 7, 1663,4. 

♦' We do much rejoice that captaine Gookin has proued see 
usefullan instrument amongst the Indians as in gouerning theire 
children in learning ; and as many other tlnnges of like nature 
which wee highly approve off as alsoe of youer allowance of l.S 
pounds made to him towards his expences the yeare past ; and 
wee are uery willing that you should make the same unto hin% 
another yeare ; and we are glad to heare that the Indian youthes 
at Cambridge have made so good proficiency in learning and wee 
are not without hopes but that the Lord will use them as instru- 
ments in his hand to preach and promote the gospel of Christ 
amongst their own countrymen. To this end and for the better 
carrying on thereof wee desire that care n.ay be taken that they 
retaine theire native language ; and as for those five Indian 
youthes att inferior schooles wee desire that all incouragement 
may be given them according to theire capassiiies and attain- 
ments in learning, &c. Hazard's Collections, vol. ii. page 492. 



222 G O R 

of the first and chief promoters of the New Eng. 
land plantiitions. He was the intimate friend of s?f 
Walter Raleigh. Thej- were both men of enter- 
prizing genius, with a similar turn for adventure, 
and promoted some of the most important voyages, 
which never would have been undertaken without 
their assistance. In 1604, Gorges was appointed 
governour of Plymouth. Obtaining a patent from 
kinf^ James, of making settlements in America, he 
fitted out a ship, August, 1606, for discovery, which 
tvas seized and carried to Spain. The next year 
he, and sir John Popham, sent over two ships, with 
100 men, who landed at the mouth of Kennebeck 
river on a peninsula, where they built a fort. When 
the ships departed, only 45 persons were left. It 
was the month of December, and they had to bear 
the cold of a North American winter. They had 
but a poor shelter from the storm, and to add to 
their misfortune, their store house was burnt, with 
a large part of their provisions. Other melancholy 
circumstances concurred to make them sick of the 
place, and they left it with disgust. This was the 
first settlement in New England. It was begun and 
ended in less than a year. Gorges was not discou- 
raged ; but v^ith other associates, after the death of 
sir John Popham, who contributed the most to help 
the first adventure, he planned several voyages to 
New England, which were executed with more or 
less success. He probably would have been dis- 
couraged, if the church at Leyden had not formed a 
settlement at New Plymouth ; but this gave a new 
animation to his spirits, and strengthened him in his 
schemes. In 1623, a settlement was begun at Pis- 
cataqua, in which sir Ferdinando Gorges was con- 
cerned, and this led him into speculations that were 
afterwards injurious to the people of Massachusetts ; 
for he joined with Mason in certain projects, 
equiilly detrimental to their freedom and interest. 
1 hey endeavoured to bring the whole country, from 
St. Croix to Maryland, under one form of govern- 



G O R 223 

inent, and because Massachusetts charter stood in 
their way they tried to get it revoked. This was 
about the year 1635. A quo warranto was issued 
against the charter and order for the establishment 
of the general government, but the commotions in 
Great Britain prevented it being completed. Gor- 
ges obtained in 1639 a confirmation of his own 
grant, which was styled the province of Maine, of 
which he was made lord palatine. He was on the 
royal side in the civil war, but died soon after it 
commenced. Belknap. 

Gorges Robert, son of sir Ferdinando, was 
active and enterprising, but had not the persever- 
ance of his father. He obtained of the council a 
patent of a tract of land in the north east of Massa- 
chusetts, 50 miles long, and 10 in breadth, and had 
a commission to be lieut. general and governour of 
New England. He came to Plymouth, 1623. This 
was the first essay for a general government ; but 
he met with so little assistance that he returned to 
England in the course of the year. Hutchinson 
says he conveyed his title to sir William Brierton, 
who afterwards became an adventurer in the Mas- 
sachusetts corporation. 

Gorges Ferdinando, esq. son of John Gor- 
ges, and grandson of the governor of Plymouth, was 
heir to the estate and title of his grandfather. He 
says, that he was appointed by his grandfather with 
col. Norton and others to settle a plantation upon 
*' the river Agamentico ;" and that they obtained u 
patent of 12000 acres on the east side, and then 
12000 to the west, and that " they had hopes of a 
happy success." His controversy with the govern- 
ment of Massachusetts is rather a subject for the 
history of the country, than a biographical sketch 
of the man. When Charles H. came to the throne, 
he expected to have no more dispute about his 
claim, calculating upon the friendship of the family 
to the royal cause, and the enmity of the king to 
the New England puritans. But while he met with 



224 G O II 

court favour, he found himself involved in difficul- 
ties with the settlers of Agamenticus, and that in- 
stead of receiving large profits from the possessions 
of these lands, they were a bill of cost continually, 
beside other discouragement from the depredations 
of the savages. He was glad therefore to sell his 
whole interest in the province of Maine, which he 
did for 1250 pound sterling. It included the coun- 
ties of York, Cumberland and Oxford. 

Mr. Gorges published a book concerning New 
England. His grandfather compiled it, but it was 
much enlarged by him : it is entitled, '* America 
painted to the life ; a true history of the original 
undertakings, of the advancement of plantations in- 
to those parts, with a perfect relation of our Eng- 
lish discoveries, shewing their beginning, progress 
and continuance from the year 1628 to 1658, de- 
claring the forms of their government, policies, re- 
ligion, manners, customs, military discipline, wars 
with Indians, commodities of the countries, a des- 
cription of their towns, havens, the increase of their 
trading, with the names of their governours and 
magistrates, written by sir Ferdinando Gorges, 
knight, governour of the fort and island of Ply- 
mouth, in Devonshire ; and published by his grand^ 
child, F. Gorges, esq. who hath much enlarged it 
and added several curious descriptions of his own." 
small 4to, Lond. 1658. This is a curious and 
scarce book. Hutchinson and Belknap have made 
great use of it. 

Go R HAM Nathaniel, esq. was born in Charles- 
town, May 27, 1738. He had the advantage of a 
good school education, and possessing uncommon 
talents, he always appeared to advantage in compa- 
ny with literary men. He settled in business at the 
place of his nativity, but seemed to be formed more 
for publick life than to succeed in mercantile pur- 
suits. He was chosen representative for Charles- 
town in 1771, and every year till the commence- 
ment of the revolutionary war. He was a very 



-• G O R 225 

assiduous attendant on the house of representa- 
tives, was a leader in all their debates, and pre- 
served independence enough openly to dissent 
from measures, which he disapproved. On this 
account he did not escape the obloquy of some 
ignorant, narrow-minded persons, whose zeal was 
only the ebullition of their passions, and who con- 
founded all who had any moderation, with those 
who were unfriendly to the cause of liberty. He 
spent some years in retirement ; but returned to 
Charlestown in 1779, and was again sent to the gen- 
eral court. The same year he was elected a dele- 
gate of the convention, which formed the present 
constitution of this commonwealth. In 1788, he 
was chosen a senator for Middlesex county. He 
also served his country with diligence and respec- 
tability as a magistrate, and was several years judge 
of the court of common pleas. In 1784, he was ap- 
pointed one of the house of representatives, and being 
delegated by this state to be a member of congress, 
was elected president of that honourable body. 

He was one of the convention which formed the 
present constitution of the United States, and he ob- 
tained a high reputation among the southern mem- 
bers for his knowledge and integrity. He stood high 
with all parties for his wisdom and prudence as well 
as skill in managing debates. He was on this ac- 
count one "of the most influential members of the 
state convention which adopted it. He died, June 
11, 1796. Dr. Thatcher preached a funeral ser- 
mon ; the town also appointed an orator to deliver 
an eulogy upon their deceased friend, and most use- 
ful fellow citizen. In compliance with their request. 
Dr. Welch paid this tribute to his remains ; and 
the town testified their acknowledgments, by a vote 
of thanks, and by publishing the discourses. 

Gorton Samuel, the head of a sect who made 

much noise in New England, came to Boston in 

1636. He had been a citizen of London, but was 

too unsteady to remain in one place, or was stimu- 

r f 



226 G O R 

lated to change his situation for the sake of i^preacU 
ing his wild fantastick notions of rehgion. He did 
not give any particular offence while he remained in 
Boston, or was artful in explaining his senti- 
ments ; for those who inquired could not determine 
whether they were heretical or not. But he soon 
went to Plymouth where he acted the same part, as 
Wheelwright and Mrs. Hutchinson did in Massa- 
chusetts. Not being permitted to stay in the old 
colony, he went to Rhode Island in 1638: but even 
in this land of freedom, he rendered himself obnox- 
ious, and, by order of the governour, Mr. Codding- 
ton, was imprisoned and whipped. In 1640, he 
went to Providence, where he was treated by Ro- 
ger Williams with the greatest humanity^ though 
he disliked his principles, and blamed his con- 
duct. He set down in this section of the coun- 
try, and mixing with others, who were fond of 
novelty, they fixed at Patuxet, where they not only 
indulged their spiritual Quixotism, but were very 
troublesome as neighbours. A charge was brought 
against them that they seized the estates of people, 
who held them in quiet possession. The governour 
of Massachusetts ordered Gorton to answer to the 
complaint, and he refused to obey the summons be- 
cause he was out of their jurisdiction. He treated 
the message in the most contemptuous manner ; 
upon which he was apprehended and brought to 
Boston. It is said he had a fair trial, and that he 
was then banished the colony. But he thought 
othewise about the trial. And Mr. Hutchinson 
says the sentence was cruel. Gorton was or- 
dered to be confined to Charlestown ; there to be 
kept at work, and wear such bolts and irons as 
might prevent his escape. 

After being confined one winter, he, with others, 
was banished the jurisdiction. They obtained an order 
from the king, August 19, 1644, that they should 
peaceably enjoy their lands, which were incorporat- 
ed by the name of Providence plantations in Narra« 



G R K 227 

ganset bay. They named the chief town Warwick, 
in honour to the earl of Warwick, who was a great 
friend to them. Gorton was again in Boston, 1648, 
and threatened with punishment ; but he soon after 
returned to his plantation, wliere he lived to a great 
age. He wrote a letter, June 30, 1669, to Mr. 
Morton, author of New England's memorial, ac- 
cusing him of the grossest slanders in the account 
which he gives of him and his followers, which is 
printed by Mr. Hutchinson. it is evident that h,e 
was not so bad a man as his enemies represented ; 
that his principles of religion were different from 
those notions generally ascribed to this sect ; and 
that so far from being illiterate he was able to write 
well. From this letter it appears, that he was a 
preacher, and that he understood the scriptures in 
their original language. We ought never to judge 
any man's opinions from the consequences we draw 
from them, i This was the case wherever the Gor- 
tonists were described. But they were able to give 
their reasons, which we should hear before we con- 
demn them. 

GosNOLD Bartholomew, an Englishman, dis- 
covered a promontory on the American coast, in 
lat. 42, to which he gave the name of Cape Cod, 
from the multitude of fishes he caught. He landed 
on several islands, and named them Elizabeth isles. 
He built a small fort ; but the same year returned 
to England. This was in the year 1602. It was the 
first voyage to this part of America, since called 
New England. Josselyn speaks of the first colony 
of Plymouth in 1602. He must mean this attempt 
to settle the islands in the bay, upon which Gos- 
nold landed, but could not persuade his men to 
stay. 

Green Samuel, the first prfnter in New Eng- 
land, was an inhabitant of Cambridge, and kept his 
press in that town above forty years, and then mov- 
ed to Boston. We are indebted to the rev. Mr. 
Joseph Glover for this great blessing to the country. 



288 G R E 

a printing press. It is not likely our fathers would 
have been so soon favoured with it, had he not ex- 
erted himself to serve them. In the year 1638, he 
took his voyage to these plantations, but died on 
his passage. He brought out with him one Daye, 
a printer, and every thing necessary in the typo- 
graphical art. The first thing which was printed 
was the freeman's oath ; the next was Pierce's al- 
manack ; and then the New England psalms. Great 
pains have been taken to procure one of the first 
edition of these psalms, but without success. *^ It is 
not probable that one remains. We know but lit- 
tle about Daye ; but we know that Mr. Green had 
this press in 1639, and every book that was publish- 
ed had his name in the title page. When he was 
employed to print the Indian bible by the society 
for propagating the gospel, they sent over Marme- 
duke Johnson as his assistant, whose character was 
very much against him, being an idle, dissipated 
youth, though he afterwards set up for himself, and 
did very well in his business. t Mr. Green was a 
printer in Boston the latter end of the century, and 
lived only a few years after his removal. He was a man 
of piety, the strictest probity, of good abilities in his 
profession, and considerable of a literary character. 
Green Bartholomew, the son of Samuel 
Green, who succeeded him in his line of business, 

* These psalms have gone through twenty three editions. 

t It pleased the honored corporation to send over one Marme- 
duke Johnson a printer to iUtend the worke on condition as they 
■vvill enform you ; whoe hatli carryed heer unworthyly of which 
liee haih bine openly convicted and sencured in some of our courts 
although as yeit noe execution of sentence against him ; pecU" 
liar favour haueing been showed him with respect to the corpo- 
ration that sent him ouer ; but notwithstanding all patience and 
letiitie used towards him, he hath proued himself very idle and 
nought and absented himself !rom the v/orke more than half a 
yeare at one tyme ; for want of whose assistance the printer by 
his agreement with us was to have the allowance of 2 1 pound, 
the which is to be defalcated out of his sallary in England by the 
lionoured corporation there,'' Sec. — Letter from the comniission- 
CTS in Boston to the hon, Robert Boyle, Sept, 10, 1662. liaz. 
ard's Collections. 



G R E 229 

emitted from his press the first newspaper in Amer- 
ica. Several of the first numbers are on the files of 
the historical society. It was called the Boston 
Newsletter. The first number is dated, April 24, 
1704. It was continued by him during life. Mr. 
Green also published another paper, called the 
Weekly Newsletter, which was afterward combin- 
ed with the other, and then it was styled the Boston 
Weekly Newsletter. He died in December, 1733, 
in the 65th year of his age. " He was one of the 
deacons of the old south church ; printer to his ex- 
cellency the governour and council, and to the hon- 
ourable house of representatives ; and generally 
known and esteemed as a humble and exemplary 
christian, one who had much of that primitive Chris- 
tianity in him, which has always been the distin- 
guishing glory of New England." 

His descendants were printers in Boston till the 
revolution. The present printers of that name in 
Connecticut are of his posterity. Daye's press is 
said to be still in use in Vermont. A printer 
now in Boston says he has worked at it. This 
seems incredible ; perhaps a certain part is kept 
as a curiosity. 

Green Joseph was born in Boston, 1706; re- 
ceived the rudiments of learning under Mr. Wil- 
liams, the preceptor of the south grammar school ; 
and was graduated at Harvard College in 1726. 

He was a man of wit and humour, a celebrated 
poet, classical scholar, and writer of fugitive piec- 
es. When he left college he turned his attention to 
mercantile affairs, and, by his diligence in business, 
acquired a handsome property. He was respecta- 
ble for a very comprehensive knowledge of things 
relating to commerce, and for his integrity, punctu- 
ality, humanity and generosity. To these virtues 
he added good breeding, politeness and elegance. 
He was not fond of high life, nor of large compa- 
nies ; but among a few friends would indulge in 
social mirth, and by his original strokes of humour, 



230 G R E 

and pleasant vein of satire, afford peculiar gratifica. 
tion to those who enjoyed his society. His wit, 
taste, and learning might have connected him w^ith 
persons eminent for their influence in the commu- 
nity, or given him any distinction an ambitious man 
would seek after ; but he never would accept of a- 
ny publick office, preferring a retired situation, and 
the happiness of domestic scenes. In 1774, when 
an act passed in the parliament, depriving Massa- 
chusetts of their charter, a new list of counsellors 
was appointed by mandamus, among the most re- 
spectable of whom was the hon. Joseph Green, esq. 
but he declined accepting the place. As soon as he 
received the summons from gov. Gage, he went to 
Salem and gave in his resignation. 

Of the poetical pieces he published, the *' elegy on 
Mr. Old Tenor," and the " satire upon the procession 
ofFree Masons, "have passed through many editions, 
and are still read with keen sensations of delight. Dur- 
ing the Whitcfieldian controversy, there was a club 
of sentimentalists who spake what they thought, and 
wrote what they pleased : though the authors were 
not always distinguished, as the pamphlets were e- 
mitted from the press, it was easy to conjecture 
what parts Mr. Green composed, especially if a line 
of poetry was introduced. The same circle of litera- 
ry friends took a zealous part in politicks. They be- 
gan by attacking the administration of gov. Belcher. 
Kvery speech he made was put into rhyme ; and 
many parts of his conduct exposed to ridicule. 
They could joke in prose and verse.* 

During the administration of Shirley, they en- 
gaged in a more serious opposition, not so much 
against the governour, as the general court who in- 
troduced the excise bills, which was very obnoxious 

* Siste Viator, here lies one, 

Whose life was whim, whose soul was pun ; 

And if you go too near his herse 

He'll joke you both in prose and verse. 

Epitaph made for Mr. Green, 1743. 



GRE 231 

to the people. Bat Shirley did not sign it. In the 
controversy with Great Britain previous to the rev- 
olution, most of these gentlemen, who had written 
so freely against arbitrary measures in their own 
government, joined the party of loyalists, conceiv- 
ing that the high toned conduct of the whigs would 
bring ruin upon tlieir country. Mr. Green left 
Boston in the year 1775; passed the rest of his days 
in England, and there died. 

It is the wish of many that his poems and prose 
writings, which are now scattered, might be col- 
lected, and put into a volume. 

Green Nathaniel, major general, was a na- 
tive of Warwick, in the government of Rhode Island, 
where he lived and was engaged in commercial pur- 
suits till the commencement of the American war. 
He was proprietor of the iron works in that town, 
where the manufacture of this article was carried on 
to much advantage. He had not a college educa- 
tion, but was highly esteemed among the sensible 
men of that colony. He was a man of more than 
common sagacity in business, early famed for politi- 
cal wisdom, and inclined to the study of military 
tacticks. Having arrived at considerable proficien- 
cy in this science, and being a good parade officer, 
the governour selected him to command the first 
troops which were raised to resist Great Britain af- 
ter the battle of Lexington. While the army was at 
Cambridge he commanded a brigade, stationed on 
Winter Hill. He led part of the army to New York, 
when head quarters were moved in 1776, and made a 
conspicuous figure in all the succeeding campaigns. 
His actions make some splendid pages in the history 
of the American revolution. In 1776, he was appoint- 
ed major general. The American army met with 
a series of defeats, and were in a manner driven 
through the Jersies by lord Cornwallis, who was as 
superiour in numbers, as in discipline. At this 
time gen. Lee was taken, which struck the people 
with the greatest sorrow, as they had placed great 



232 G R E 

confidence in his militaiy skill; but it answered one 
good purpose at the time, for it brought our own 
officers into more notice, and whatever credit they 
obtained was undivided. The battle of Trenton 
was gained by the American generals, Washington, 
Sullivan and Green. They succeeded also in 
gaining advantage of the British forces by making 
a rapid march to Princeton, which gained them im- 
mortal honour, while it appeared the only way of 
saving the army. " When we lay at Trenton, after 
the crossing the Delaware a second time, the ene- 
my advanced from Princeton with a force nearly 
double to ours. Our outguards were repulsed, and 
the enemy entered one part of the town, while we 
remained in possession of the other. There was 
now only a small branch of a river between us over 
which there was a bridge ; this, though w^ell secur- 
ed, would have been of little advantage to us, as the 
stream was fordable in every part. Our army was 
drawn up in order of battle, waiting their approach. 
But the day being far spent, a stop was put to their 
making the attack that night. This was the most 
critical moment our bleeding country ever beheld. 
The fate of this extensive continent was suspended 
by a single thread. Happy for us, and for unborn 
millions that we had a general who knew how to 
take advantage of every thing, and by a masterly 
manoeuvre frustrated the designs of the enemy. A 
general battle would have ruined us. But the 
inarch to Princeton proved the salvation of the 
country."* In both these engagements gen. Green 
distinguished himself; as he did afterwards in the 
battle of Brandywine and Germantown in the fall 
of 1777. In 1778, he commanded the right wing 
of the army at the battle of Monmouth. His con- 
duct that day gave much pleasure to gen. Wash- 
ington, who had been very much chagrined at the 
misbehaviour of gen. Lee. That famous offi<:er had 
been exchanged; he had received every honour this 
country could bestov/upon him; but from this day 
• Major Shaw's mss. 



G R E 233 

he lost their confidence and esteem. He demanded 
a court martial, and was disgraced. Gen. Green 
was one of the court, whose attachment to him, 
previously to this, had been very stron^^. 

It shows the consequence of gen. Green in the 
army of the United States, that, while he acted as 
quarter master general, he did every kind of milita- 
ry service. He was better qualified, on account of 
his activity and mercantile ideas, to provide for the 
army, than any other man; but such an officer could 
not be spared from the field. And he would not ac- 
cept of the place of quarter master general, except he 
retained his ria:ht to command in action. His milita- 
ry skill and prudence were manifested in drawing off 
the American army from Rhode Island, when the 
French fleet left the harbour. This happened, Au- 
gust, 1778. It was a time of great expectation : 
but the hopes of the people were cut off, and the 
military sensibility of the soldiers much wounded. 
Had the army been supported according to promise ; 
had the French fleet, or our militia remained with 
them, they would in all probability have taken the 
island. 

When major Andre was taken, October, 1780, 
gen. Green was president of the court martial 
which tried and condemned him. 

We are in the next place to view our general as 
commander of the southern section of the army. 
He there reaped the greatest laurels, and reflected as 
much lustre upon his country as upon himself. The 
success of our arms from January, 1781, when the 
battle of Cowpens gave a new turn to affairs in South 
Carolina,to the conclusion of the war,may, in a great 
measure, be imputed to his wise measures for re- 
moving difficulties among the people, conciliating 
their affections, and stimulating their exertions 
against the common foe. Great credit is due to 
Morgan, who fought at Cowpens. This victory- 
was of infinite advantage to the commander in chief. 
But he discovered his own wisdom and virtue in 
G g 



234 G R E 

making use of the best talents in his army. And 
when he had made preparations for a general en- 
gagement, he boldly met lord Cornwallis, fought a 
regular battle, near Guildford court house, and was 
near gaining a victory. Had the militia stood firm, 
like the soldiers of the army, the British troops must 
have retreated. Lord Cornwallis acknowledged it 
was a " hard fought action," and that the American 
army behaved admirably well. They lost one of 
their best officers, col. Webster of the guards, and 
many of their officers as well as soldiers fell. The 
wounded were left to the care of the humane. Nei- 
ther Green nor Cornwallis could remain upon the 
spot, but were under the necessity of abandoning the 
hospital. These unfortunate men found friends. A 
body of quakers were in the neighbourhood : to 
them gen. Green recommended the sick and the 
wounded, acquainting them that he also was of their 
religion, which required them to perform every 
kind office, especially to strangers. To the honour 
of these men be it spoken, that they did every thing 
necessary for their ease and comfort. Gen. Green 
afterwards attempted to reduce the fort at Camden, 
where lord Rawdon commanded. His lordship was 
brave, sallied out, and a battle was fought, 25th 
April ; but Green saw fit to retreat. He lost in the 
action about the same number as fell on the side of 
the British troops. It had this effect to make lord 
Rawdon quit his post. 

In May our general began a siege of fort Ninety 
six. He made an attack upon the garrison, and 
was repulsed with the loss of 1 50 men ; in conse- 
quence of which he retreated over the Saluda. In 
this gloomy situation, when he was advised to leave 
the state, and retire with the remaining forces to 
Virginia, he replied, I will recover the country, or 
die in the attempt. We learn this from Dr. Ram- 
say's history of the revolution in South Carolina, 
one of the first and best works of that distingushed 
writer. He enters into a minute description of the 



G O R 235 

battles fought in that state, and gives a just account 
of all the proceedings of the southern army. On 
the i9th of September Green made an attack upon 
the enemy at Eutaw springs. In this engagement, 
as we are informed by the author above mentioned, 
the American army lost 500, the British 1 100 men. 
The congress presented gen. Green with a British 
standard, and a gold medal emblematical of his suc- 
cess, '* for his wise, decisive and magnanimous con- 
duct in the action at Eutaw springs ; in which, with 
an inferior force, he obtained a most signal victo- 
ry." The historian informs us that during this time, 
there was a plot laid by certain mutinous characters, 
among his own troops, to deliver up to the enemy 
this brave and fortunate commander, which was 
providentially discovered. All the very active ope- 
rations of the army were over in the beginning of 
1782. In October, 1781, lord Cornwallis, with 
his army at Yorktown, surrendered. The rumour 
was, that the city of Charleston was to be evacuat- 
ed, which would end the disturbances in South 
Carolina. It was officially announced, August 7th. 
The olive branch was soon displayed in the hand 
of Britannia, and peace was established the next 
year. Among the warriors who left the field to 
retire to their own habitations, we may now look at 
gen. Green, and behold him one of the best of cit- 
izens, as he was in his military character one of the 
best of our generals. 

In 1785, he removed his family to Georgia, and 
he there cultivated a large plantation, which the gen- 
eral assembly of that state had granted him, as a re- 
ward for his publick services. He died suddenly, 
it was supposed by a coup de soleil, June 19th, 
1786. Every honour was paid to his remains by 
the citizens of Savannah, where his body was car- 
ried that the funeral procession might be more re- 
spectable. The congress voted to have a monu- 
ment erected at the seat of the federal government, 
with the following inscription, 



236 G R I 

SACRED 

to the memory of 
NATHAs'IliL GREEK, esq. 
who departed this life 
the nineteenth of June, MDCLXXXVI. 
Late major general 
in the service of the United Slates, 
and commander of their army 
in the southern department. 
The United States, in coiytj;ress assembled, 
in honour of his 
patriotism, valour and ability, 
have erected this 
MONUMENT. 
Greenwood Isaac, a mathematician, was 
graduated at Harvard College, 1721 ; elected pro- 
fessor of mathematicks, and natural philosophy, 
1728 ; he continued in the professorship ten years, 
and was then dismissed. 

Mr. Greenwood was the first professor in these 
branches on this side the Atlantick ocean. Mr, 
Thomas Hollis, of London, a man famous for his 
munificence, laid the foundation of it, and the offi- 
cer is styled, Hollis professor of mathematicks and 
natural philosophy. When the news of Mr. Hollis's 
death reached America, Mr. Greenwood published 
*' a philosophical discourse concerning the mutabili- 
ty and changes in the material world," in which 
great respect is paid to their benefactor. It was 
read, April 7, 1731, and concludes in the following 
manner : 

" As in the vegetable kingdom, it is with a supe- 
riour pleasure and expectation, that we consider the 
revival of such plants as have always been distin- 
guished by the delicacy or plenty of their fruit, so 
with the earnest desires and hopes we should wait 
for the day when we shall behold the resurrection of 
such^ as have distinguished themselves by acts of 
charity and boimty." 

Gridley Jeremiah, attorney general of the 
province of Massachusetts Bay, member of the 
general court, colonel of the first regiment of mili- 
tia, president of the marine society, and grand mas- 



H A K 237 

tcr of freemasons, died at Boston, Sept. 7, 1767. 
In 1725, he took his degree at Cambridge ; was as- 
sistant in the grammar school in Boston, and a 
preacher of the gospel. But soon turned his atten- 
tion to the law, and became one of the most emi- 
nent of the profession. In 1732, he was editor of 
a newspaper, called the Rehearsal, and filled the first 
page with an essay, either moral or critical, besides 
writing political paragraphs. His manner of writ- 
ing is handsome, and his speculations ingenious : 
at the bar his speech was rough, his manner 
hesitating, but energetic, and his words forcible by 
a peculiar emphasis. His opinion was always given 
even to the judges with a magisterial air; his le- 
gal knowledge was unquestionable. 

He was on the side of the whigs ; and in the house 
of representatives, where he was a member some 
years, from Brookline, he opposed the measures of 
Great Britain ; but in a question on search war- 
rants, his speech as attorney general, contains sen- 
timents, incompatible with freedom, which was 
confuted by Otis. Both speeches are preserved in 
Minot's history. When Trowbridge was [)romoted 
to the bench of Judges, Gridley was appointed at- 
torney general. He died poor, because he despised 
wealth. 

Hakluyt Richard, one of the corporation of 
adventurers for the prosecution of discoveries in 
North America, was born in London, 1553, and 
educated at Westminster School. In 1582, he pub- 
lished a " collection of voyages ;" and in 1587 
translated into English a French account of Florida 
by capt. Loudonnier, which he dedicated to sir 
Walter Raleigh. In the same year he published an 
improved edition of Peter Martyr's book " de novo 
orbe." He was nominated by Raleigh, and chosen 
one of the corporation of counsellors and assistant 
adventurers ; and was very active in collecting ac- 
counts, and prosecuting voyages. In 1589, he pub- 
lished " the principal navigations, voyages and dis- 
coveries of the English nation made by sea or over 



2S8 HAN 

land," folio, three volumes. These books contain 
the narratives of two hundred and twenty voyages. 
The last volume was printed in 1600. He also 
published a translation from the Portuguese of 
" Antonio Galvino's history of discoveries," 4to. 

In 1605, he was appointed a prebend in West- 
minster ; with this he had a rectory in Suffolk. He 
was in more easy circumstances than he had been ; 
and in 1609 published a translation of " Ferdinand 
de Soto's description of Florida." He died, 1609. 

Purchas made great use of his papers, mss. as 
well as books that were printed. 

That famous navigator Hudson, named a promon- 
tory on the continent of Greenland, Hakluyt's 
Headland. Biog. Diet. 

Hancock Thomas, merchant in the town of 
Boston, was the son of the rev. Mr. Hancock of 
Lexington,* was born, July 3d, 1703 ; and died 
suddenly, August, 1764. 

He left 1 000 pounds for founding a professorship 
of the Hebrew and other Oriental languages ; 1000 
pounds for the society for propagating the gospel 

* The rev. John Hancock, of Lexington, was venerable for his 
character, and great abilities in his profession ; he had such an 
influence anmong the ministers, that he was called bishop. He 
■was graduated at Cambridge, 1689, and in the year 1698, ordain- 
ed over a society,which then made part of the town of Cambridge, 
called the Farms. It is now Lexington, being incorporated ia 
1711. Mr. H. died, 1752. 

This worthy minister left three sons ; John, Thomas and 
Ebenezer. The eldest son was graduated at Harvard College, 
1719. He died, 1744, elat. 42. He was minister of the church 
at Braintree, a very elegant and accomplished preacher. He 
published several volumes, and a pamphlet in the controversy con- 
cerning the proceedings of the convention of ministers in the 
year 1743. It is entitled, " a reply to Mr. Gee's remarks on the 
printed testimony of pastors in Boston against several errors and 
disorders in the land " Mr. Hancock was one of the committee 
that formed this testimony. Thomas, the second son, served his 
time with col. Henchman, a stationer in Boston; but liaving a turn 
for more extensive business, became one of the principal mer- 
chants in New England. tbenezerwas graduated, 1728; was 
settled with his father six years, and died, January 28, 1739, 40;, 
etat. 29. 



HAN 239 

among the Indians. Upon this his heart was very 
much set ; but the design was frustrated. Such a 
society was instituted by the general court» but the 
act was negatived by the governour. He also left 
600 pounds towards a hospital for the reception of 
persons deprived of their reason ; and two hundred 
for carrying on the linen manufacture. 

While he lived he was a most useful member of 
society ; active in every office, a patriot full of pub- 
lick spirit. He was often employed in the service 
of the town, and for many years a member of his 
majesty's council. As a merchant he exhibited the 
strictest probity. "He never fell short of his en- 
gagements to any, and his humanity often prompted 
him to go beyond them." 

*' His house was the seat of hospitality, where all 
his numerous acquaintance, and strangers of dis- 
tinction, met with an open and elegant reception.*' 

The procession at his funeral was very great, and 
the mourning of the inhabitants sincere. They felt 
the magnitude of the loss, especially vast num- 
bers of industrious men whom he constantly em- 
ployed. 

Hancock John, governour of Massachusetts, 
was the son of the rev. John Hancock, of Braintree. 
He lost his excellent father when he was young, but 
had every advantage of a virtuous and liberal edu- 
cation from the care and kindness of his uncle, the 
hon. Thomas Hancock, esq. He was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1754, and went into the mercan- 
tile line, serving an apprenticeship with his uncle, 
who then was in the midst of his prosperity, and 
did more business than any other man in Boston. 
He was regarded by his friends as an amiable young 
man ; but discovered no prominent traits of char- 
acter which should lead his acquaintance to prog- 
nosticate the conspicuous figure he was afterwards 
to make in society. The hon. Thomas Hancock 
died suddenly in 1764. The property he left 
was very great. In the imagination of the people 



240 HAN 

it was immense. It was the subject of conversa- 
tion in every street, and by every fire side, while 
all lamented the loss the publick had sustained. 
But they soon turned their attention to him who 
was the heir of his fortune, and appeared disposed 
to imitate his virtues. He was promoted to every 
office which a man fond of publick life could expect 
or desire. His manners were pleasing. He was 
polite, affable, easy and condescending, and what 
was greatly in his favour did not appear to be lifted 
up with pride. Such an elevation to prosperous 
circumstances would make some men giddy, and 
cause others to despise the neighbour, poorer 
than themselves. He was, for several years, se- 
lectman of the town; and in 1766, representative to 
the general court. He there blazed a whig of the 
first magnitude. Otis, Gushing, and S. Adams 
were the other three, who represented the capital, 
men of name in the revolution of their country. 
Being fond of publick notice, he was flattered by 
the approbation of the people, with their marks of 
confidence, and the distinction he had in the gene- 
ral court. He was generally chosen on committees, 
and was chairman upon some occasions, when the 
most important concerns of the country were the 
subjects of the report* How far he was engaged in 
drawing these reports is not to be ascertained ; but 
they contained his sentiments upon publick affairs. 
He often gave his opinion when questions were be- 
fore the house, and mingled in the debates, but 
possessed no great powers as a parliamentary speak- 
er. He never made a long speech, either in the 
style of declamatory eloquence, or the masterly 
reasoning of a great statesman. The vivid and ener- 
getick orations of Otis were the theme of admiration. 
The political sagacity of Adams, the publick spirit 
and patriotick zeal of Hancock, also gave a lustre to 
the boston seat. Perhaps tht^i e never was a time 
when the representatives of tbt capital had such an 
influence in the affairs of the province. There was 



HAN 241 

a collision of sentiment among the leading whigs 
about the removal of the court to Boston. Hutch- 
inson offered this upon certain conditions, which 
the majority of members saw fit to comply with. 
Mr. H. voted with them. Adams was against the 
measure, and expressed his sentiments in opposition 
to his friend and colleague. Mr. Hancock was a 
man impatient of contradiction, and, upon some oc- 
casions, indulged a petulant humour. He could not 
bear the opposition of Mr. Adams on this question. 
It was one cause of the aHenation between them. 
That gentleman was cool and determined, hard and 
unvieldins:, as well as bold in his arj^ument. He 
sometimes was sarcastick in his replies ; but upon 
the subject Vv'hich then divided the house,he observ- 
ed the utmost delicacy, and seemed to dread the 
consequence of this political difference. These 
gentlemen had different views, though equally zeal- 
ous in their opposition to the mother country. Or 
else one looked further than the other. Mr. H was 
not against a reconciliation, if Great Britain would 
repeal all her unjust acts, and pay due respect to 
the rights of the colonies. Adams did not wish the 
ancient friendship should be renewed. From the 
time of the stamp act, he saw that hostilities would 
commence, and the American colonies become a 
nation by themselves. He was desirous of being 
an actor in the most important scenes, and have his 
name handed down to posterity among the patriots, 
who were to form a new era in the revolution of 
empires. 

The division of these two leading characters made 
parties among the whigs, especially in the town of 
Boston. Mr. Hancock was the idol of the people. 
His generosity upon all publick occasions, and 
kindness to individuals, were the theme of continu- 
al and loud applause. It was said that his heart was 
open as the day to acts of beneficence : that he sunk 
his fortune in the cause of his country. This was 
the prevailing idea, and it gave a perfume to the 

H h 



242 HAN 

sacrifice. What bounds could be given to the peo- 
ple's affection to a man, who preferred " their lov- 
ing favour to great riches !" 

He was certainly the most popular man in the 
community. Nor was his popularity a transient 
thing. At future periods of our revolution, when 
attempts were made to depreciate him ; when other 
characters were brought forward whose merit was 
conspicuous ; and even when he was accused, in the 
publications of the day, of wanting qualifications for 
administering the government, he still retained his 
infAience in the community. It is well known, that 
some of our greatest and wisest and best men have 
solicited his concurrence in their measures, from 
the full persuasion that the popular voice was so 
much in his favour. 

In the year 1774, Mr. H. was chosen to deliver 
the publick oration in Boston on the 5th of March, 
to commemorate the massacre of 1770. It is a ve- 
ry handsome composition, and was very well deli- 
vered. During the course of this year his health 
declined. When the general assembly of the pro- 
vince elected members of the first congress, he was 
so ill, as to be unable to attend publick business. 
The ensuing winter was favourable to his health ; 
he recruited his spirits and activity. He was one 
of the provincial congress, and, for a time, their pre- 
sident. He was then elected a member of the gen- 
eral congress, that was to meet at Philadelphia in 
1775. This year was the most remarkable of any in 
the annals of the British nation. The revolutionary 
war commenced, April 19. The battle of Lexing- 
ton was succeeded by a proclamation from the gov- 
ernour, declaring the country in a state of rebellion, 
and proscribing Hancock and Adams, as the chief 
leaders, whose behaviour was too flagitious to be 
forgiven. This only served to give importance to 
their characters ; to fix them in the esteem and af- 
fection of their country. There were men in these 
states who coveted such a mark of distinction ; ma« 



HAN 243 

ny, who would have given all their wealth, and run 
any risk of consequences. 

This year Mr. Hancock married Miss Dorothy 
Quincy, the daughter of one of the magistrates of 
Boston, and descended from one of the most ancient 
families in New England. 

In 1776, July 4th, his name appears as president 
of the congress which declared the colonies indepen- 
dent of the crown of Great Britain. The name of the 
president alone was published with the declaration, 
though every member signed it. It was a mark of 
respect due to Massachusetts, to have one of their 
members in the chair, which had been filled with a 
member from South Carolina and Virginia. Mr, 
H. had those talents which were calculated to make 
him appear to more advantage as chairman, than in 
the debates of a publick body. He excelled as mo- 
derator of the Boston town meetings, as president of 
the provincial congress, and state convention; and, as 
head of the great council of our nation, he was much 
respected. He discovered a fine address, great im- 
partiality, sufficient spirit to command attention^ 
and preserve order. His voice and manner were 
much in his favour, and his experience, in publick 
business, gave him ease and dignity. 

In 1779, Mr. Hancock resigned his place in con- 
gress. He was chosen a member of the convention 
that formed the constitution for this commonwealth. 
He was not one of the committee to draw up the 
plan. Many were earnest to have him president ; 
but the majority were for Mr. Bowdoin. He at- 
tended his duty, however, very regularly, and 
sometimes expressed his sentiments. He dissent- 
ed from those, who would have given more power to 
the governour, and more energy to the constitution. 

From 1780 to 1785, Mr. Hancock was annually 
chosen governour of the commonwealth of Massa- 
chusetts. He declined beinc; a candidate for the 
office the ensuing year, and was succeeded by the 
hon. James Bowdoin, esq. During the administra- 



244 HAN 

tion of Mr. B. there was an insurrection in the 
state, which was happily quelled. Every thing was 
done in the most judicious mannerbythe governour, 
and the legislature, yet a part of the community ap- 
peared to be discontented with the administration, 
and. in the year 1787, Mr.Hancock was again plac- 
ed in the chair. The friends of Mr. Bowdoin were 
disappointed. They consisted of a large number 
of respectable characters in the commonwealth ; 
men of property and wisdom, who felt the injury 
that gentleman had received, as a deep wound giv- 
en to the body politick. The present governour 
could not escape their censure, and his administration 
was attacked by certain political writers, who expos- 
ed his faults with the Heenest satire, and excited 
prejudices against him. A more friendly disposi- 
tion was excited towards him, when the constitution 
of the United States was offered to the people. His 
conduct in the state convention during the discussion 
of it, gained him honour. The opposition to this 
excellent form of government was great. It was 
said that the majority of the convention would be 
against the adoption ; and that the governour was 
with the opposers. He was chosen president of the 
convention, but did not attend the debates till the 
latter weeks of the session. Certain amendments 
were proposed to remove the objections of those, 
who thought some of the articles deprived the peo- 
ple of then- rights. He introduced these amend- 
ijfients with great propriety, and voted for the 
adoption ol the constitution. His name and influ- 
ence doubtless turned many in favour of the fede- 
ral government. When the president of the United 
States visited Boston, there was some obliquity or 
peculiarity in his behaviour, which renewed the old 
prejudices against him. It was thought he failed 
in certain attentions to that illustrious character, and 
he was in some danger of losing his popularity ; 
for all classes of people looked upon Washington 
as the hrst of men. 



H A R 245 

The latter years of his administration were easy 
to him, on account of the publick tranquillity. The 
federal government became the source of so much 
prosperity that the people were easy and happy. 
The two patriots, Hancock and Adams, were recon- 
ciled. When lieut. ^ov. Gushing died, gen. Lin- 
coln was chosen, as his successor. This gave great 
offence to Mr. Adams, and it was very disagreeable 
to the governour. They joined their strength to 
support the same measures, as well as renewed their 
friendship. The next year, Lincoln was left out of 
office, and Mr. Adams chosen lieut. governour. 
This gentleman succeeded Mr. Hancock, as gover- 
pour of the commonwealth, after his death. He di- 
ed, October 8, 1793. 

The death of such a man was interesting to the 
people at large. The procession at his funeral was 
very great. Dr. Thacher the minister of Brattle street 
church, preached his funeral sermon the next Sab- 
bath. To this society, he had been a great benefac- 
tor ; he subscribed very largely for the building of 
this superb edifice, and was always liberal in his 
contributions upon other occasions. He was very 
friendly to the clergy of all denominations. Born 
and educated among them, he was never weary of 
assisting them. He did a great deal also to promote 
the cause of learning as well as religion. The li- 
brary of Harvard College will give an exhibition of 
his munificence. His uncle expressed his inten- 
tion of subscribing 500 pounds sterling towards fur- 
nishing a new library and philosophical apparatus, 
when Harvard Hall was burnt in 1764, but died 
suddenly and this was not expressed in his will. 
The heir made no hesitation about granting it; and 
the name of Hancock, in golden letters, now adorns 
one of the alcoves of the library room, and is upon 
the records of the university among her greatest 
benefactors. 

Harvard John, pastor of the church at Charles- 
town, came over to America in the year 1636, 7v 



246 HAW 

He died of a consumptive complaint soon after his 
arrival, greatly lamented, being a very excellent 
man, and worthy minister. By his will, he bequeath- 
ed about 800 pounds to promote the cause of litera- 
ture in New England. The general court had given 
400 pounds towards a publick school at Newtown ; 
and the institution found encouragement from seve- 
ral other benefactors. But because the memorable 
John Harvard led the way, by a generosity exceed- 
ing the most of them, his name was justly eternised, 
says the author of the Magnalia, by its having the 
name of Harvard College imposed upon it. 

Hawthorne William, one of the fathers of 
Massachusetts, came over to Dorchester; but when 
Hugh Peters was minister of Salem, he removed to 
that place. He became one of their most useful 
citizens, and their representative to the general 
court. Johnson says, that he was the most eloquent 
man in the assembly. He was a friend of Winthrop, 
and often opposed to Endicot, who glided with the 
popular stream. It was Mr. Hawthorne's opinion, 
which he publickly advanced and supported, that 
none but men of property were qualified for civil of- 
fices. He was also of opinion that the council 
ought to be permanent. This political tenet was the 
subject of a treatise, which Mr Saltonstall wrote, in 
164<'2. His book was highly censured, Mr. N or- 
ris, the minister of the church in Salem, answered 
it. The reply is handsomely commended by gov. 
Winthrop. In 1650, Mr. Hawthorne was chosen 
speaker of the house of representatives, and is the 
first upon record. He certainly was very influen- 
tial in all the affairs of the province for many years, 
and whatever his former opinions had been, he 
drank deeply of the republican spirit of New Eng- 
in his latter days. For he was one of the obnoxious 
characters, which king Charles II. required to be 
sent to England. He mentioned five gentleman 
who were to answer for the conduct of the colony. 
And the letter expressed two of their names, Mr. 



HAY 247 

Bellingham and Mr. Hawthorne. The court of 
Massachusetts did not send them. It was the opin- 
ion, however, of many of the first characters in the 
province, that it would be best to comply with the 
order of the king. But their conduct was censured. 
The governour called the court together, and desir- 
ed that the elders might be present, who gave their 
advice against it.* 

Mr. H. was as reputable for his piety as for his 
political integrity. He was a friend to the consti- 
tution of the New England churches, and, whenever 
occasion required, was ready to defend the privileg- 
es of the brethren against the encroachments of the 
elders. Major Hawthorne was a magistrate in 1676- 
He died the latter end of the century. Several 
families of the name are in the state ; and some of 
his descendants are respectable inhabitants of the 
town, where their ancestor was so well esteemed and 
made such a conspicuous figure. Hutch* Bentley. 

HaYxnes John arrived at Boston, A. D. 1633- 
The next year he was chosen assistant, and in 1635 
advanced to the chair of government. He removed 
from Massachusetts to Connecticut, and was, for 
many years, their most distinguished character- 
Had he continued in Massachusetts, he would have 
been a rival to gov.Winthrop. His property, which, 
combined with any considerable qualifications, will 
always give a man influence, was equal to a thou-^ 

• Among the magistrates, some are good men and well affect- 
ed to his majesty, and would be well satisfied to have his authori- 
ty in a better manner established ; but the major part are of dif- 
ferent principles, having been in the government from the time 
they formed themselves into a commonwealth. These direct and 
manage all affairs as they please ; of which number are Mr.Lev- 
erett, governour, Mr. Syraonds, deputy governour, Mr. Danforth, 
Mr. Tyng, major Clarke, major Hawthorne, who still continued a 
magistrate, though commanded by his majesty upon his allegi- 
ance to come into England, yet refused, being encouraged in his 
disobedience by a vote of the court, not to appear,upon some rea- 
sons best known to themselves. These, with some few others 
of the same faction, keep the country in subjection and slavery, 
backed with the authority of a pretended charter. Randolph's 
letter to the lords of the privy coupcil. 



248 H 1 G 

sand pounds a year in his own country ; but when 
jVIr. Hooker came over to New England, he joined 
the company. They resided at Newtown, with a 
nutPiber of families from the county of Essex. 
They were, most of them, farmers, and wanted more 
extent of land to cultivate. Dr. Trumbull says, 
*' that the growing popularity of Mr. Haynes, and 
the fame of Mr. Hooker, who, as to strength of gen- 
ius, and his lively, powerful manner of preaching, 
rivalled Cotton, were supposed to have had no 
small influence upon the general court in giving 
liberty to this company to remove to Connecticut. 
There, it was judged, they would not so much 
eclipse the fame, nor stand in the way of the pro- 
motion and honour of themselves and friends. Mr. 
Haynes was chosen governour of Connecticut ; and 
his great integrity and wise management of all af- 
fairs so raised and fixed his character in the esteem 
of the people, that they always, when the constitu- 
tion would permit, placed him in the chief seat of 
government, and continued him in it until his death. 

The fathers of Connecticut, according to the his- 
torian above mentioned, were Mr. Haynes, Mr. 
Ludlow, Mr. Hooker, Mr. Warham, Mr. Hopkins, 
Mr. Welles, Mr. Willis, Mr. Whiting, Mr. Wol- 
cott, Mr. Phelps and Mr. Webster. These were 
the first class of settlers ; and all, except the minis- 
ters, were chosen magistrates, or governours of the 
colony. 

Dr. Trumbull says, the name of Haynes has be- 
come extinct in this country. There are several 
families of Haynes' in Massachusetts ; but whether 
they came from the same parts of old England can- 
not be ascertained. 

Gov. Haynes died in the year 1654. 

HicGiNsoN Francis was educated at Emanuel 
College, Cambridge ; proceeded master of arts, and 
was settled in the ministry at Lancaster. He had a 
very pleasant voice ; was very courteous and oblig- 
ing in his behaviour, and so popular, that the people 



H I G 249 

flocked from all the neighbouring towns to hear him 
preach. For some years he continued in his con- 
formity to the rites and ceremonies of the episcopal 
church, but afterwards became a sincere convert to 
the doctrines and manners of the puritans. His ac- 
quaintance with the famous Hildersham, and Mr, 
Thomas Hooker, brought about this alteration of 
his opinions. They had studied the controversies, 
which then divided tlie churches of the reformation, 
and persuaded him to indulge the same spirit of 
free inquiry. He acknowledged, that he could find 
Tio foundation for many things, which had been in- 
troduced by the church of Rome, and still continu- 
ed in the church of England ; and he was a man of 
too much simplicity and godly sincerity to practise 
them after he was convinced from what source they 
came. Hence he offended the ruling party, and was 
not allowed to exercise his ministry in his own par- 
ish church. The people, however, procured the 
privilege of his preaching a lecture one part of the 
Sabbath for them ; and the other part he preached 
for an aged minister, who needed his assistance. 

He was maintained by a voluntary contribution, 
which came easily from his hearers, because he was 
so well beloved. The ministers of the episcopal 
church were also so fond of him, that they opened 
their churches to him, as long as they could do it 
with any safety. Happily for them, they were in 
the diocese of one of the m.ost exemplary and sweet 
tempered bishops that ever filled an episcopal see. 
This was Dr. Williams, whom bishop Laud, with 
the fierce spirit of bigotry, hated, because he had so 
much evangelical charity. The rods of his wrath 
were shaken against Mr. Higginson, among the 
other favourites of the good bishop of Lincoln. He 
could not, however, destroy the work which INIr. 
Higginson had done. It pleased God to give lus- 
tre to his character, and success to his ministry. 

Before Mr. H. became a non-conformist, he ap- 
peared to manifest more regard to discipline in his 

I i 



250 H I G 

church than was common, though nothing' more 
than the rubricks required. He publickly dechired 
that ignorant and scandalous persons were not to be 
admitted to the Lord's supper. After preaching 
upon this text, *' Give not tliat Vvhich is holy unto 
dogs," aman, whowas a common drunkard and 
swearer, approached the chancel. He said to him, 
before the whole assembly, that he was not willing 
to give the Lord's supper to him, until he had pro- 
fessed his repentance, to the satisfaction of the con- 
gregation. The man was full of resentment, but 
could not resist the commanding influence the man 
of God had, as much by the virtue of his character, 
as the sacredness of his office. Another instance is 
mentioned in the Magnalia, which may be related in 
the words of the author, as it is less accompanied 
with marvellous circumstances, than are generally 
combined with his biographical sketches, "A fa- 
mous doctor of divinity, prebend of a cathedral, and 
chaplain to his majesty, then lived at Leicester. 
This gentleman preached but very seldom ; and 
when he did at all, it was after that fashion, which 
has sometimes been called gentleman-preaching % 
after a flaunting manner and with such a vain osten- 
tation of learning, and affectation of language as ill 
became the oracles of God ; the people generally 
flocking more to the edifying preaching of Mr. H. 
than to these vain harangues. Our doctor so ex- 
tremely resented it, that both publickly and private- 
ly, on all opportunities, he expressed his indigna- 
tion against Mr. H. and vowed that he would cer- 
tainly drive him out of town. Now it so fell out, 
that the sheriff' appointed this doctor to preach at the 
general assizes there, and gave him a quarter of a 
year's time to prepare a sermon upon that occasion. 
But in all this time he could not provide a sermon 
to his own satisfaction, insomuch that a fortnight 
before the time was expired, he expressed to some 
of his friends a desprur of l^ein^r well provided. 
Wherefore his friends t>ersu*ided him to try, telling: 



HIG 251 

him that if it came to the worst, Mr. H. might be 
procured to preach in his room ; he was always rea- 
dy. The Dr. was wonderfully averse to this last 
proposal, and therefore studied with all his might 
for an agreeable sermon ; but he had such a blast 
from heaven upon his poor studies, that the very 
night before the assizes began, he sent his wife to 
the devout lady Cave, who prevailed with Mr. H. 
to supply his place the day ensuing ; which he did 
with a most suitable, profitable and acceptable ser- 
mon ; and unto the great satisfaction of the audito- 
ry. When the lady Cave had let this matter be 
known, how this thins;, which was much wondered 
at, came about, the common discourse of the town 
so confounded the doctor, that he vowed he would 
never come into it again. Thus Mr. Higginson 
was left in the town, but, I pray, who was driven 
out?" 

The high reputation of Mr. Higginson procured 
him the ofter of some of the best livings in the 
island, but his principles of non- conformity operat- 
ing upon a mind imbued with the love of truth, he 
sacrificed every worldly consideration, and trusted 
in providence for the means of support. He edu- 
cated a number of youths, who were afterwards good 
scholars at the universities, and shone as lights in 
the christian church. From the benevolence of his 
disposition, he forwarded every pious, useful and 
charitable work ; but his generous sympathy was 
peculiarly remarkable towards the protestantexiles, 
who came from Bohemia and the Palatinate, when 
the French had burned their cities, and they had be- 
held their dulcia arva changed to fields of blood. 

In the year 1628, the company of Massachusetts 
bay in New England began a plantation. It was 
their decree, that none but honest and godly men 
should "^o over to settle. Mr. Higginson was a man 
admirably calculated to manage their design of pro- 
pagating what they styled reformed Christianity. 
He complied with their request ; for he tliought 



252 H I G 

their invitation a call from heaven to which he must 
listen. They set sail from the isle of Wight, May, 
1629, and when they come to the land's end, Mr. 
Higginson calling up his children and other passen- 
gers of the ship, said, " We will not say as the 
separatists were wont to say at their leaving of En- 
gland, Farewell Babylon ! Farewell Rome ! But we 
will say, Farewell dear England ! Farewell the church 
of God in England, and all christian friends there I 
We do not go to New England as separatists from 
the church of England, though we cannot but sep- 
arate from the corruptions in it, but we go to 
practise the positive part of church reformation, and 
propagate the gospel in iSmerica." 

This company arrived at Salem harbour 29th of 
June. There were only six houses, beside Mr. 
Endicot's. The same voice was then heard in 
this American wilderness, which had charmed the 
crowded cities of Europe. Mr, Skelton being asso- 
ciated with Mr. Higginson, in the work of the min- 
istry, a day of religious preparation was observed. 
Mr. Higginson's church considered the two arti- 
cles, which had been agreed upon between Mr. En- 
dicot and Mr. Fuller, of Plymouth, who, though 
laymen, wxre deeply interested in the ecclesiastical 
affairs of the plantations, viz. *' That the church of 
Salem would not acknowledge any ecclesiastical ju- 
risdiction in the church at Plymouth. And that 
the authority of ordination should not exist in the 
clergy, as in the protestant churches, but, as the 
unqualified sense of the reformed churches, should 
entirely depend upon the free election of the mem- 
bers of the church, and that there should be a re- 
presentative of this power continually in the church." 
We are told that Mr. Endicot had explained his 
views to the church at Plymouth ; and that Mr. 
Higginson consented. He drew up likewise a 
*' confession of faith," with a scriptural repre- 
sentation of the " covenant of grace," applied to, 



H I G 25S 

their purpose, whereof thirty copies were taken for 
the thirty persons, who gathered the church. 

Tliis ancient church was organized, August 6th, 
1629. Mr. Skelton was chosen pastor, Mr. Hig- 
ginson teacher, and other officers, according to the 
regulations they had adopted. 

After this, many others joined, whose good con- 
versation and conduct were amply testified. The 
first winter our fathers were exercised with many 
trials, and more than one hundred of the inhabi- 
tants of Salem died. Mr. Higginson also fell into 
a hectic fever, but continued preaching for some 
time. The last sermon he preached was upon this 
text, " What went ye out in the wilderness to see.*' 
Matt. xi. 7. It was occasioned by the arrival of 
many persons from Europe to settle in different 
places of New England. Finding himself near his 
dissolution, he conversed freely upon it. He said 
*' that although the Lord called him away, he was 
persuaded God would raise up others, to carry on 
the work that was begun, and that there would be 
many churches in this wilderness." He died August, 
1630, leaving a widow and eight children.* 

He lived long enough, however, to secure the 
foundation of his church, to deserve the esteem of 
the colony, and to provide himself a name among 
the worthies of New England. 

Mr. Higginson wrote an account of New Eng- 
land, which is printed in the first volume of the col- 
lections of the historical society. It is styled, " A 
short and true description of the discoveries and 
commodities of the country. Written in the year 
1629, by Mr. Higginson, a reverend divine, now 
resident there. London, 1630, third edition." 

Higginson Francis, eldest son of Mr. H. of Sa- 
lem, was educated by his fiuher in England, and was 
an excellent scholar. He kept a school in this country ; 
but having a desire to visit some European univer- 

^ This is the time mentioned in the Ma-^naha, Mr. Bentley in 
his history of Salem, says it was 15lh March. 



254 H I G 

sity, he went to Leyden, where he finished his stu- 
dies. He settled in his native country, and was minis- 
ter for many years at Kerby- Stephen, in Westmore- 
land. In this place, the quakers early made their 
appearance. He wrote a book against them. It 
was entitled, *' the irreligion of northern quakers," 
which is said to be the first thing written against 
the people of that persuasion. He also published a 
treatise, *' De quinque maximis Luminibus ; Dc 
luce increata ; De luce creata ; De lumine naturae, 
Gratiae et Gloriae." 

He died, in 1660, in the 55th year of his age. 

Hi G GIN SON John, was born in England, 1616, 
and came over with his father to this new world. 
When his father died, he, like his brother Francis, 
had no other means of support but the fruit of his 
knowledge. By his diligence and industry, he 
was able to acquire learning, and to assist the fami- 
ly in their destitute state. He kept school at Hart- 
ford in Connecticut, and afterwards accepted an in- 
vitation to be chaplain of the fort at Say brook. He 
must have been there in 1639: for we find his 
name as witness to the articles of agreement be- 
tween the settlers at Guilford in Connecticut, and 
the Indians concerning the lands, which were then 
purchased.* That excellent and upright man 
George Fenwick was then at the fort. He gave to 
the planters a large tract of land, on condition they 
would accommodate Mr. Whitfield, his particular 
frier.d, according to his mind. 

This Mr. Henry Whitfield was the first pastor 
of the church in Guilford, and he led this little flock 
into the wilderness. He was also a wealthy man, hav- 
ing considerable possessions in the old country ; and 
at Guilford, he built, at his own expense, a large stone 
house, which was a defence against the Indians. 
He was ^' a well bred gentleman, a good scholar, a 
great divine, and excellent preacher." When he 

• Rugglcs account of Guilfovd, vol. iii. of historical coUec- 
';ians. ' 



HIG 255 

had continued with his people about twelve years, 
he went to England, leaving the care of his flock to 
Mr. Higginson, who was his son in law. This gen- 
tleman had preached at Guilford some years. He 
removed from Say brook about the year 1 643, was one 
of the seven pillars of the church of Guilford, and 
assisted Mr. Whitfield in the pulpit. He never was 
ordained at Guilford, but took care of the flock till 
the year 1659, when he purposed to go with his 
family to England. The vessel in which he sailed, 
put into Salem harbour on account of the weather, 
and he was persuaded to settle in the church, 
which his father had planted. He was ordained their 
pastor, August, 1660. "Major Hawthorne, with the 
deacons, imposed hands upon him in the presence of 
the neighbouring churches and elders." 

As a minister, Mr. Higginson was highly respect- 
ed. That he was very popular in all the country- 
appears from a paper which Chalmers published in 
his political annals. It is supposed to have been 
written by Randolph who, being employed as a 
spy, sent a minute account of the state of Massa- 
chusetts. One question was, Who are the most 
popular clergymen ? Answer. Thachcr, Oxen- 
bridge and Higginson. Dr. Cotton Mather says, 
likewise, that even when he was eighty years old, 
he preached with such a manly, judicious, pertinent 
vigour, and with so little decay of his intellectual 
abilities, as was a matter of just admiration. Af- 
ter speaking thus highly of him, he says, that he 
should praise him still more, did he not recollect the 
saying of a German divine, Auferte ignem, &c. i. e. 
*' Oh, bring not the sparks of your praises near mc, 
as long as I have any chaff" left in mc." He is 
afraid of receiving such a check from his reverend 
father of Salem ; but he comforts the good man by 
telling him that he must soon die, and then com- 
plete justice would be done him in all the churches. 
This was written in 1696; but Mr. Higginson liv 
ed a number of years after : he died in 1703, aged ^3 



256 H O A 

He preached the election sermon in 1663. He also 
published other occasional discourses, and several 
prefaces to devotional books. His name, with Mr. 
Thacher's, is affixed to the commendation of " Mor- 
ton's memorial." He also wrote the attestation to the 
church history of New llngland, Magnalia Ameri- 
cana, &,c. wherein he gives a particular narrative of 
the Mathers, Of the author of that work he thus 
speaks, " As I behold this exemplary son of New 
England, while thus young and tender, at such a 
rate building the temple of God, and in a few 
months dispatching such a piece of temple work as 
this is, a work so notably adjusted and adorned, it 
brings to mind an epigram upon young Borellus : 

Cum }uvt;ni tanlam dedit experientia lucem, 
Taie ut promat opus, quu ra ddbit ilia seni i 

As to myself, having been, by the mercy of God, 
now above 68 years in New England, and served 
the Lord and his people in my weak measure, 60 
years in the ministry of the gospel, I may now ia 
my old age, say / have seen all that the Lord hath 
done for his people, and have known the beginning 
and progress of these churches unto this day ; and 
having read over much of this history I cannot but 
in the love and fear of God, bear witness to the truth 
of it." 

The last work which appears withMr. Higginson's 
name is, the "Testimony to the order of the gospel in 
the churches of New Kngland,left in the hands of the 
churches. By the two most aged ministers of the 
country, Mr. H. of Salem, and Mr. H. of Ipswich." 

Hoar Leonard, M. D. president of Harvard 
College, was elected into that office, July 13, 1672, 
and inaugurated the 10th of September. 

This gentleman was graduated at the college, over 
which he afterwards presided, in 1650. He went to 
England, and w^as a preacher of the gospel ; he also 
studied phy sick, and received from the university of 
Cambiidge, the degree of doctor of medicine. He 
returned to New England to accept of an invitation 



H O L 257 

he received from the Old South church in Boston 
to be their pastor. Upon his arrival he was chosen 
to succeed president Chauncy at the college ; but 
thouj^h possessed of sufficient learning, he vi^anted 
a proper spirit of government, and some other qual- 
ifications, to make himself respectable in the office. 
Prejudices were excited against him. The stu- 
dents all left the college, and the doctor resigned 
the chair, March 15, 1675, which had been truly a 
thorny seat. " Sceptrum ilium scholasticum plus 
habet solicitudinis quam pulchritudinis, plus curae 
quam auri, plus impedimenti quam argenti."* 

His mind was much affected by this alteration in 
his situation, and he died a broken-hearted man, 
Nov. 24, the same year. 

Dr. Hoar married a daughter of Lord Lisle, who 
came over the Atlantick to share his troubles. She 
exhibited, in her life, the charms of virtue, and the 
practice of piety. Magnalia. 

HoLYOKE Edward, president of Harvard Col- 
lege, was born in Boston, had the rudiments of his 
education at the north grammar school, and gradu- 
ated at Cambridge, A. D. 1705. He was chosen 
tutor, 1712, and the next year a fellow of the cor- 
poration. " These stations he filled with reputa- 
tion to himself, and advantage to the suciety with 
whose interests he was so nearly concerned." He 
was invited to the pastoral office in Marblehead, 
1716. That ancient church divided, and made two 
distinct societies. Mr Barnard and Mr. Holyoke 
were the preachers : the one was settled at the first 
church, the other in a church built for him. Here 
Mr. Holyoke officiated till the year 1737, and he 
was then elected president of the college. 

Father Barnard says, f *' that he went to gov.Bel- 
cher, and asked him why they chose one Boston 
minister after another, and neglected the man whq 
was most qualified to fill the chair of that seminary, 

* Melchior Adam, as quoted by Cottore Malher. 
t Mss. penesme. 

Kk 



25^ HOG 

his worthy brother Holyoke, His excellency an- 
swered, that it would be agreeable to him if he were 
assured of his orthodoxy, but suspicions had been 
spread of his being liberal in his sentiments. He 
told him, that he was more acquainted with him 
than any other person, and he knew him to be sound 
in the faith." Mr. Holyoke continued in the chair 
above thirty years. The college jftourished under 
his government. He mingled prudence with a just 
and noble spirit, and was a gentleman in his man- 
ners. His erudition was considerable ; but he 
chiefly excelled as a mathematician and classical 
scholar. It was seldom he could be persuaded to 
commit any thing he wrote to the press. The con- 
vention sermon, which he printed in 1741, is an ad- 
mirable discourse. He preached the first discourse 
at the Dudleian lecture, soon after the death of the 
founder ; but would not publish it. Nor would he 
often appear in the pulpit upon publick occasions. 
President Holyoke died the first week in June, 
1769, in the 80th year of his age. He was buried 
with every mark of distinction due to such a re- 
spectable character. Gov. Hutchinson, treasurer 
Hubbard, two members of the corporation, and two 
ministers of the board of overseers, who were not 
of that body, supported the pnll. Professor Sewall 
delivered a funeral oration in latin ; and the next 
Lord's day a sermon upon the occasion was preach- 
ed by the rev. Dr. Appleton, which was printed, 
with a character of the president annexed, drawn by 
one of the gentlemen in the immediate government 
of the college. 

HooKHR Thomas, the renowned pastor of the 
church in Hartford, Connecticut, was born at Mar- 
field, Leicestershire, in 1586, educated at the 
university of Cambridge, and elected a fellow of 
Emanuel College. He was, in 16'i6, a lecturer in 
Chelmsford, Essex street, but not being willing to 
conform to all the rites of the church of England, 
he w^s obliged to iay 4owtt the ministry. He af- 



HOC 5S9 

terwards kept school, and had for his usher, John 
Eliot, who, in America, was afterwards styled the 
Indian apostle. Finding himself still prosecuted by 
tlie spiritual court, in 1630, he went over to 
Holland. He there became intimately acquainted 
with the celebrated Dr. Ames, who declared, that 
although he had been acquainted with many scho- 
lars of divers nations, yet he never met with Mr. 
Hooker's equal for preaching, or for disputing. 
Dr. Mather says, that Mr. Hooker and Mr. Cotton 
were the Luther and Melancton of New England : 
he meant to describe their different genius. It is 
difficult for us, at this da}-, to know which was Me- 
lancton, or how either resembled him, 

Mr. Hooker arrived at Boston, Sept, 4, 1633, in 
the Griffin, gov. Haynes, Mr. Cotton and Mr. Stone 
being his fellow passengers. In October Mr. H. 
was ordained pastor of the church in Newtown. In 
June, 1636, he went widi his church above a hun- 
dred miles, and settled upon the banks of the river 
Connecticut. Here he was the chief instrument of be- 
ginning another colony. Had this divine been call- 
ed to the church in Boston, and Mr. Haynes had no 
rival in gov. Winthrop, it is most probable they 
would have continued with their people in Massa- 
chusetts. He often visited Boston ; and whenever 
he preached, his great fame drew crowded assem- 
blies. This great man died, July 7, 1647. Mr. 
Cotton said, that he did " Agmen ducere cf 
dominari in concionibus, gratia spiritus sancti et 
virtute plenis;" and that he was " vir solertis et 
acerrimi judicii." A very full memoir of Mr. 
Hooker has been written by the grandson of Mr. 
Cotton, who calls him the light of thewestern church- 
es. It makes part of the Magnalia, and is also 
printed in a separate volume. 

Many volumes of Mr.Hooker's sermons were print- 
ed ; most ofthem are now out of print. One volume 
on John xvii. is yet preserved among us, and certain 
of his polemical writings. His most famous \w)rkis 



260 HOP 

thesurvey of church discipline: the first copy was sent 
to Lngland in a vessel which was lost. The copy 
■which we now have, wants the finishing hand of the 
author, but is a work of great merit and research. 
He was a friend to the consociation of churches. He 
also gives more authority to the elders than was 
ever allowed by our fathers of the Massachusetts 
colony. 

Hooper William was born and educated in 
Scotland. After he arrived at Boston, he was em- 
ployed as a private tutor in a gentleman's family a 
few miles from the town. His oratory at his first 
setting out as a preacher gained him vast applause. 
A number having engaged him to settle with them 
as their minister, built a house for publick 
worship at New or West Boston, and ordained him 
the pastor of it. But upon a vacancy happening in 
Trinity Church in Boston, he disgusted his parish- 
ioners by accepting an invitation from that church, 
and asking a dismission from his own : they howe- 
ver granted it. He embarked for England, and 
having received episcopal ordination he returned to 
Boston, and officiated as minister of Trinity Church 
till his death in 1 767, 

Hopkins Edward, governour of Connecticut, 
born at Shrewsbury, A. D. 1600, was brought up 
a merchant in London, and lived in that city in a 
handsome style, with the esteem and affection of 
the people. He married the daughter of Theophi- 
lus Eaton, esq. with whom he removed to New- 
England ; and when the company went from Mas- 
sachusetts bay to Connecticut river, he was one who 
fixed at Hartford, and became a pillar and ruler of 
that colony. 

He was exemplary for his piety, integrity and 
charity. In his publick character he did every thing 
to maintain peace, as well as to execute justice. 
He had to combat with many evils, not only in sub- 
duing the wilderness, but with others, which gave a 
wound to the spirit ; an incurable dementia had 



HOP 261 

seized the brain of his wife, at the same time that 
he was subject to pulmonary complaints. The lat- 
ter he could bear with resignation ; for what are the 
infirmities of the body compared with the trials of 
the heart! "I promised myself, "said he/ 'too much 
content in this relation and enjoyment ; and the 
Lord will make me to know, that this world shall 
not afford it me." 

Upon the death of his elder brother it was ne- 
cessary that he should return to England, and he 
was there a favourite of the ruling power. He was 
soon appointed warden of the fleet, commissioner 
of the admiralty, and also chosen member of par- 
liament. His friends in New England were un- 
willing to lose such a man from their plantation ; 
but they derived much benefit from his services in 
the mother country. He was eminently qualified 
for every publick employment ; was the friend of 
learning and religion; and having enjoyed the luxu- 
ry of doing good while he lived, his virtues blos- 
somed on his sepulchre. He died in the month of 
March, 1657, leaving a large estate in New England 
for pious and charitable uses. After mentioning 
certain legacies in his will, he bequeathed tlie re- 
mainder to '* encourage hopeful youths in a way of 
learning, both at the grammar school, and at col- 
lege, for the publick service of the country in fu- 
ture times." 

He also gave 500 pounds out of his estate in Eng- 
land *' for the promoting the kingdom of the Lord 
Jesus Christ in these remote parts of the earth." 
This donation was. by a decree of chancery, 1710, 
paid to Harvard College. The interest given in 
New England was estimated at 1000 pounds ster- 
ling, and has been appropriated to the support of 
the grammar schools in New Haven, Hartford and 
Hadley. A certain part of the income at the disposal 
of the corporation of Harvard College is given to the 
master of the schools in Cambridge, according to 
the number of grammar scholars ; a certain part in 



ii6^ . HOP 

books to the best scholars of the university ; but 
the greatest part of it to students in divinity, who 
reside at the college, bachelors of arts, upon this 
condition, that each one should read four theological 
dissertations in the course of the year. 

Mr. Hopkins was elected governour of Connect- 
icut while he was in EngLind. He was in the of- 
fice the year he died. He was also one that form- 
ed the union of the New England colonies, 1643. 
His name is signed to the articles of the confedera- 
tion. Gov. Winthrop was the first president. In 
1644, the hon. Edward Hopkins of Connecticut. 
Hazard's Collection, 

Hopkins Samuel, D. D. was born at Water bu- 
ry, Connecticut, educated at Yale College, which 
he entered hi the year 1737, being then 16 years 
old. Having received the honours of that semina- 
ry, he was settled at a place on the Housatonick 
river, since called Great barrington, the 28th of 
December, 1743. He continued the pastor of the 
church in this place 25 years, and was afterwards in- 
vited to Newport by the people of the first congre- 
gational church ; was ordained their minister, 1770, 
but was obliged to leave the place in 1776, when 
the British troops took possession of Rhode Island. 
From this time to the year 1780, he travelled over 
Connecticut and Massachusetts, preaching to desti- 
tute flocks, as his local situation admitted. Wheq 
his flock returned to Newport, he also returned 
with them, and preached to their edification even to 
old age. He died the latter end of the year 1803. 
Dr. Hopkins was a man of great abilities in his 
profession, a profound metaphysician, eminent as a 
writer of polemick divinity, but more eminent as 
the head of a denomination of christian professors, 
which have greatly increased in New England. 
From his own account of them, "they are the most 
soundj consistent, thorough Calvinists, who in gen- 
eral sustain as good a character, as to their morali- 
ty, preaching and personal religion, as any set of 



HOW 263 

clergymen whatever, and are most popular where 
there appears to be the most attention to religion : 
and at the same time are the most hated, opposed 
and spoken against, by arminians, deists and per- 
sons who have no religion.'* We may allow some- 
thing, perhaps, for his own prejudice as well as the 
prejudices that have gone out against them. 1 hey 
certainly may reckon in their number some of the 
most ingenious and celebrated divines of our coun- 
try.* 

Howard Simeon, D.D. was graduated at Har- 
vard College, A. D. 1753. Soon after receiving 
the honours of that seminary, he was elected to the 
tutox'ship, for which place he had peculiar qualifica- 
tions. He was an excellent scholar, had a pleasant 
manner of giving instruction, and mingled conde- 
scending manners with a proper spirit of govern- 
ment. He was invited to take charge of the west 
church in Boston, after the death of the great Dr. 
Mayhew. His ordination was 6th of May, 1768, 
and for a course of years he diffused his light for 
the edification of a people, who gave him lively to- 
kens of their affection, and to whom his memory is 
dear. He was an example of that simplicity and 
godly sincerity which his preaching made essential 
to the life of a clirirjtlan. His sermons were me- 
thodical, full of good sentiments and judicious re- 
marks ; perspicuous and evangelical. He had not 

*His various publications are three sermons, Rom. iii. 5, 6, 
" sin an advantage to the universe, and yet this no excuse 
for sin, or encouragement to it." 1759 ; " an inquiry conceining 
the promises of the gospel,* 1765, 8vo. ; a sermon upon " the 
high and glorious character of Christ," Heb iii. 1, 1768 ; a ser- 
mon Rom. vii. 7 ; ditto John i. 13, same year. The true state 
and character of the unregenerate. &c. 1763, Svo. ; animadver- 
sions on Mr. Hart's dialogue, Ecc. 1770, pamphlet, 31 pages; 
*' an inquiry into the nature of true holiness, with an appendix 
eontaining replies to Mr Hart, Mr. Mother, Mr Hemmenway,'* 
1773 ; "a dialogue concerning the African slavery," 1776 ; "an 
inquiry concernuig the future state of the wicked," 1783 ; " Bo- 
rly of divinity, 2 vols. 8vo. 1793. 

Sketches of Dr. Hopkim* life. Hart's sermov. 



264 HOW 

the striking talents which draw crowded auditories, 
nor an ease and grace in deliver}-, but he had weight 
and dignity in his composition, and ** spoke as to 
wise men." Upon certain occasions he could man- 
ifest spirit and animation, or an energy which 
made the subject interesting and arrested attention. 
He grew in reputation as he advanced in years, 
which is a remark not often made upon ministers 
in the decline of life, but applies to the character 
of this worthy man. 

Dr. Howard was a member of many societies for 
the promotion of learning, piety and humanity. Of 
several he was an active and useful officer. He was 
fellow of Harvard College, from the year 1780 to 
1804 ; and secretary to the board of overseers. A 
member of the American academy of arts and sci- 
ences ; of the society for propagating the gospel 
among Indians, and others, in North America ; vice 
president of the humane society ; also one of the 
counsellors of the congregational society for minis- 
ter's widows. Whatever he undertook he per- 
formed with fidelity ; wherever he was known he 
was highly esteemed. He died August 12, 1804. 
President Willard, his particular friend, preached 
a discourse the afternoon of his funeral.* 

Howe Sir William, arrived in Boston in May, 
1775, with Generals Burgoyne and Clinton, to 
take an active part in the war. The British troops, 
by order of Gen. Guge, had fought Lexington bat- 
tle, April 19. He bee:nn his military exploits, the 
next month after his arrival, with the battle of Bun- 
ker hill. He never made any further progress in 
Massachusetts. In March 1776, he departed lor Hali- 
fax, with all his forces ; thence he went to New- York,, 
and for several years conducted the American war. 

• His publications were few. ThoiiGjIi often solicited to print 
his discourses, ht was prevailed upon only in certain instances ; 
an artillery election sermon, 1773 ; the election sermon, 1779 ; 
a sermon after the death of his wife ; one upon the death of Dr. 
Winthrop of Cambridge j and a discourse addressed to the free- 
masons. 



HOW 265 

having obtained a temporary possession of Philadel- 
phia, he embarked for J\nghmd, in the spring of 1778, 
leaving the further prosecution of the war to Sir 
Henr}' Clinton. 

Gen. Howe succeeded to the chief command of 
the British army in America, on the departure of 
gen. Gage, and had a commission to be governour 
of the province of Massachusetts. 

A letter from gen. Lee, while he was a prisoner 
at New- York gives the following account of this 
officer. 

" From my first acquaintance with Mr. Howe 
I liked him. I thought him friendly, candid, 
good natured, brave and rather sensible than oth- 
erwise ; but a corrupt, or more properly no edu- 
cation, the reigning idolatry of the Knglish, espe- 
cially the soldiery, for every sceptred calf, wolf, 
hog or ass, have totally perverted his understanding 
and heart, that private friendship has not force suf- 
ficient to keep the door open for the admittance of 
mercy towards political heretics. — He is the most 
indolent of mortals, never took further pains to 
examine the merits or demerits of the cause in 
which he had engaged, than merely to recollect that 
Great Britain was said to be the mother country, 
George the third, king of Great Britain ; that the Par- 
liament was called the representative of Great Bri- 
tain ; that the king and pLuliament formed the su- 
preme power ; that a supreme power is absolute 
and uncontroulable ; that all resistance must con- 
sequently be rebellion ; but above all he was a 
soldier and bound to obey in all cases whatever ; — 
these were his notions, and this his logic. — Never 
poor mortal thrust into station, was surroiuided by 
such fools and scoundrels. McKenzie. Balfour, 
Galloway, were his counsellors, they urged him 
to all his acts of harshness, they were his scribes. 
All the vile stuff which was issued to the as- 
tonished world were theirs. I believe be scarcely 
ever read the letters he signed, I can assure yoa 

L i 



a66 HUB 

as a fact, that he never read the curious proclama- 
tion issued at the head of Elk, till three days after 
it was published. He is naturally good humoured, 
complaisant, but illiterate, indolent to the last de- 
gree, except as an executive soldier, in which 
capacity he is all fire and activity ; and brave and 
cool as Julius Csesar. His understanding is rather 
good than otherwise, but was utterly confounded 
and stupified by the immensity of the task imposed 
on him. He shut his eyes, fought his battles, drank 
his bottle, &c. advised with his counsellors, receiv- 
ed his orders from North and Germaine, one more 
absurd than the other, took Galloway's opinion, 
shut his eyes, fought again, and I suppose is now to 
be called to account for acting according to his in- 
structions. I believe his eyes are now opened, and 
he sees he has been an instrument of wickedness 
and folly.* 

Hubbard William, was in the first class of 
graduates at Harvard College, 1642. In the book 
of " Wonder-working providences" mention is 
made of William Hubbard, one of the representa- 

* How just this observation,wlien we consider the reception he 
met with in Great Britain 1 Lord Germaine laid all the ill success 
of the campaign in 1777 upon him ; and his friend Galloway was 
the chief evidence against him. Israel Mauduit, the secretary of 
Germaine, was also employed to write virulent pamphlets to ren- 
der the general's character odious. Howe had advocates in the 
house of commons : his old friends in the minoritj-, who blamed 
him for serving in America, took his part against the minister ; 
lord Germaine's orders and instructions were the subject of their 
philippick, and they were powerful enough to make that ministei' 
retire. In the examination before the house of commons, how- 
ever, the general's conduct did not appear much to his credit. A 
man may make an excellent captain of grenadiers, who has no 
talents to command an army. If one half of Galloway's evidence 
were true, he was the most unfit man to bring America into sub- 
jection they could have chosen. What is a little remarkable, a 
private letter of a British officer when the army was in Boston, 
has tlis expression, '^ Gen. Howe don't seem as if he wanted t© 
conquer America." This agrees with Galloway's account, 
though nothing can excuse the perfidy of that man, the satellite 
of the minister of war, whose own ignorance and gross absurdi 
tifts, were more glaring than gen. Howe's. 



HUB 267 

tlves in the general court, from the town of Ipswich. 
It is said, he was among the most able speakers in 
the assembly 1637. One gentleman from Salem 
was allowed to be more fluent, but none more solid 
and argumentative. This gentleman is supposed 
to have been father to the subject of this article, 
who was teacher of the church in Ipswich till his 
death. The year of his ordination I have never 
been able to obtain ; the records of the church 
of Ipswich not being preserved. His gravestone 
is not to be found, and none of the present gen- 
eration can recollect much about him. The 
oldest men in the town, who tell of those form- 
er divines that were contemporary, such as 
Rogers, Norton, Cobbet, Ike. whose maimer of 
preaching they have heard their fathers describe, 
have no impressions made upon their minds of 
the character of Mr. Hubbard, who certainly 
was for many years the most eminent minister 
in the county of Essex ; equal to any in the 
province for learning and candour, and superiour 
tx) all his contemporaries as a writer. Perhaps he 
was not so fervent a preacher as some. He might 
want a voice and manner, or that animation in the 
pulpit which some preachers have, and which will 
be more talked of, than the still sound of wisdom. 
Or perhaps he lived too long for his reputation. 
When a man's life is cut short in the midst of his 
days and usefulness, the excellencies of his name 
and character are the subjects of remark for man3r 
generations. If another continues to old age, ai\d 
mental imbecilities succeed the more vigorous in- 
tellect, he is remembered only in the last stage of 
life, and he drops into the grave without emotions 
of sorrow. His name is seldom mentioned in the 
neighbourhood where he dwelt ; but those at a 
distance, who ha^^e heard of his fame when he ap- 
peared upon the stage with engaging virtue, or read 
his works with delight, wish to know what were 
tjKe more minute parts of his character. 



20B HUB 

Whether these observations apply gei:ierally or 
not, they certauily apply to the subject of this me- 
moir. He has been quoted by all who give ac- 
counts of Nevv-P'.ngland, but few, very few notices 
of him are in the records of the town, where he 
spent his days.* 

In the year 1676 Mr. Hubbard preached the 
election sermon, which is among the very good 
ones published during that century. He was one of 
the seventeen ministers who bore testimony against 
the old church in Boston, when they settled Mr. 
Davenport ; also, when the general assembly ap- 
proved of the act of the first church, and censured 
the proceedings of the third church, commonly 
called the Old South. The division excited upon 
this occasion interested the passions of the people 
at large, so as to give a new complexion to pub- 
lick affairs. Most of the deputies, who had so 
severely censured the brethren who built the Old 
South church, for their spirit of zjincuatiofj, and 
leading the good old path of their fathers^ were left 
out, and new members chosen. The town of Ips- 
wich took an active part in this matter ; and Mr. 
Hubbard^s influence had considerable effect upon 
their proceedings. 

In 1682, Mr. Hubbard is brought to view as the 
historian of Massachusetts. He received some re- 
ward from the publick for his useful work. The 
following vote is copied from the records of the 
general court, October II. 

*' Whereas it hath been thought necessary and a 
duty incumbejit upon us, to take due notice of all 
occurrences and passages of God's providence to- 
wards the people of this jurisdiction, since their 
iirst arrival in these parts, which may remain to pos- 
terity, and that the rev. Mr. William Hubbard hath 
taken pains to compile a history of this nature, 
which the court doth with thankfulness acknowledge, 
3nd as a manifestation thereof, do hereby order the 

* See Mr. Frisbie's letters, Hist. Coll. vol. x. page 35. 



HUN 269 

treasurer to pay unto him the sum of fifty pounds 
in money, he transcribing it fairly into a book, that 
it may be the more easily perused, in order to the 
satisfaction of this court." 

In 1684 Mr. Hubbard presided at the commence- 
ment. This was after the death of president Ro- 
gers. But though Dr. Increase Mather was in the 
neighbourhood, the Senatus Academicus saw fit to 
send for a minister from the county of Essex ; so 
respectable was his character among the literary 
men of his profession. 

The publications of Mr. Hubbard were not very 
pumerous. They consist of several volumes in 
duodecimo ; of which are a narrative of the In- 
dian wars ; Memoirs of major gen. Dcnnison, &c. 
But his chief attention was paid to his vtis. history, 
which was composed upon the plan of Winthrop's 
journal. For some reason or other neither of these 
piss, were permitted to be seen by the publick, till 
lately the journal has been printed. In all his his- 
tories Mr. Hubbard appears a steady friend to the 
constitution of the churches. He expressed indig- 
nant feelings at the erection of the church in Brattle- 
street, upon a more liberal plan than our fathers 
were willing to adopt. 

There is nothing of this said in his ms. history, 
which only comes down to 1680, but he speaks 
pointedly in his private letters to several gentlemen, 
and in the last thing he published, his Dying testi- 
mony to the order of the churches, which he wrpte 
jointly with Mr. Higginson of Salem. He died 
Sept. 24th, 1704, aged 83. 

Huntington Samuel, governour of Connecti- 
cut, was the son of Nathaniel Huntington, esq. of 
Windham, and descended from an honourable and 
respectable family. His early years were distin- 
guished by indications of an excellent understand- 
ing and a taste for mental improvement. Without 
the advantage of an education at any university, or 
the assistance of pi;ofessional studies, he acquired a 



370 HUM 

competent knowledge of law, and having fixed at 
Norwich, he in a few years became eminent in his 
profession. In 1764, he was a representative to the 
general assembly, and the year following attorney- 
general. In 1774, he was appointed assistant judge 
in the superiour court. In 1775, he was elected a 
counsellor and a delegate to congress. In 1779, 
he was president of that illustrious body. When 
the time expired for which he was chosen into the 
national councils, he resumed his seat upon the 
bench. In 1784 he was appointed chief justice of 
the state and lieut. governour. He succeeded gov. 
Griswold as chief magistrate in 1786, and was an*, 
nually re-elected until his death, Jan. 8. 1796. 

" His natural disposition was mild and amiable, 
the whole tenor of his conversation ingratiating and 
exemplaiy. The prosperity of the state during his 
administration, the flourishing condition of its civil 
and military interests, are unequivocal testimonies 
of the wisdom and fidelity with which he presided. 

As a professor of religion, a constant attendant 
upon the institutions of Christianity, he manifested 
an unvarying faith in its doctrines and joyful hopes 
in its promises." 

The governour left no children. Mrs. H. died, 
June 4, 1794, in the 56th year of her age. She 
was the daughter of the rev. Ebenezer Devotion of 
Windham. Strong'' s sermon. 

Humphrey John was early engaged in the settle- 
ment of the New England plantations. He was one 
of the original patentees Irom the council of Ply- 
mouth. He married the lady Susan, daughter to 
the earl of Lincoln, and brought her with their chil- 
dren to Massachusetts bay in 1632; and was im- 
mediately chosen assistant. He fixed his habita- 
tion at Lynn, or Saugus. The spot of ground 
which he cultivated lies on the old road between 
Boston and Salem. In 1640, he was about remov- 
ing to the Bahama islands, but altered his purpose 
upon hearing that New Providence was taken by 



HUT 271 

the Spaniards. Having met wit'h some losses by 
fire, and his estate being otherwise impaired, he re- 
turned to England. Lady Moody purcliased his 
plantation at Saiigus.* Hutchinson, 

Hutchinson Thomas, governour of Massachu- 
setts Bay, was a descendant from one of the most 
ancient and honourable families in New England. 
Several of the name held offices of honour and trust 
under the old charter ; others were of his majesty's 
council under the charter of William and Mary. 
The hon. Thomas Hutchinson, esq. father of the 
governour, a distinguished merchant of Boston, was 
colonel of the first regiment in Suffolk, and a coun- 
sellor from 1714 to 1739, the year of hisdeadi. He 
was the man who seized the famous capt. Kidd 
when he resisted the officers of justice sent to arrest 
him. His son gives a brief delineation of his cha- 
racter in saying " I w4sh that many of his posterity 
may so justly deserve the character of true friends 
to their country. Regardless of the frowns of a 
governour, or the threats of the people, he spoke 
and voted according to his judgment, attaching 
himself to no party any further than he found their 
measures tend to the publick interest." Col. Hutch- 
inson left several children. Neither of them dis- 
covered talents or ambition except the eldest, who 
is the subject of this memoir. This gentleman 
passed through strange vicissitudes ; at one time 
he was the most popular character in Massachusetts, 
^t another the object of publick abhorrence. 

Mr. H. received the rudiments of his education 
at the north grammar school, and was admitted into 
Harvard College when he was only 12 years of age. 
His progress in literature was the subject of notice 
and applause. In 1727 he was graduated; butin- 

• This lady made herself notorious in the early settlenient ok 
the country. She was member of the church in Salem, but ve- 
ry soon renounced infant baptism. She was admonished, and 
still persisted in her opinion. To avoid fuv'her trouble she re- 
moved to one of the Dutch plantations. 



272 HUT 

stead of following bis studies and entering one of the 
professions, as was expected, he applied himself to 
merchandize. It seemed to be the most ardent de- 
sire of his soul to acquire property. Ambition and 
avarice frequently agitate the same breast ; and he 
might attach an importance of character to wealth, 
which would enable him to gain any distinction he 
wanted as he advanced in life. He did not succeed 
in his commercial pursuits, but rather diminished 
than augmented to his patrimony. His fellow towns- 
men regarded him more for his probity and honour 
than for his mercantile skill ; they thought him ca- 
pable of transacting publick business, and by their 
favour he was stimulated to bend his mind wholly 
to the study of history and political constitutions. 
He was chosen a selectman of Boston in 1738, and 
conducted with so much prudence and fidelity, that 
he was appointed by the town their agent to man- 
age very important business in Great Britain, which 
he undertook, and settled to their satisfaction. 
When he returned from London, he was chosen one 
of the representatives of Boston for the general 
court, and was annually elected to the same office, 
till he was advanced to the council board. In the 
house of representatives he acquired great reputa- 
tion. He had the charms of oratory beyond any 
man in the assembly. There was equal fluency and 
pathos in his mamier ; he could be argumentative 
and smooth. He was active, diligent, plausible, 
and upon all occasions seemed to be influenced by 
public spirit more than selfish considerations. Some 
who admired him for his good qualities were after- 
wards of a different opinion, and wondered how he 
could conceal his views under the veil of hypocrisy, 
or with the mask of dissimulation. In 1747 he was 
chosen speaker of the house ; but had the same in- 
fluence among the members as when he led in their 
debates. At this period the country was much 
embarrassed by the publick debt. The nominal 
\alue of which was above 2,000,000 pounds, and 



HUT ' 273 

the provision made for redeeming it less than 200,000 
pounds. All classes of people, except speculators^ 
suffered beyond description. Especially the cler- . 
gy, and widows, or orphans, whose paternal inhea*- 
itance had been sunk by the depreciation of current 
money. All complained, but none could suggest 
a method to do justice, till Mr. H. pointed out a 
way of serving the publick, which made him con- 
ceive himself to be the prince of politicians. The 
" abolition of old tenor," and " introduction of a 
fixed currency," he relates in his history without 
sparing any account of his own exertions. He pro- 
posed the plan to gov. Shirley, who approved it \ 
He then offered the same to the members of the 
house, who w^ere too shortsighted to comprehend 
it ! Out of respect to the speaker, they appointed a 
committee to examine what it might be ! The plan, 
however, which their most experienced members 
were disposed to reject, which the most politick 
thought ridiculous, which seemed impracticable 
by men engaged in commerce, was at last by his 
exertions adopted, and found upon trial to be wise 
and judicious. The monster of frightful mein was 
soon changed to the fair form of benevolence, hold- 
ing in her hands the fruits of industry ; or riches to 
individuals, and honour to the community. The 
bill passed in the year 1749. At the succeeding 
election, Mr. H. was chosen a member of his ma- 
jesty's council ; but was still an advocate for the 
cause of the people on some occasions, though gen- 
erally on the side of prerogative. When the ex- 
cise act passed the house of representatives, and 
was confirmed by the council, Mr. Hutchinson, 
with that excellent man, chief justice Sewall, op- 
posed it with all their influence. In the pamphlet 
called *' the monster of monsters," which was a sa- 
tirical description of the speeches made upon the 
excise act in the general court, Hutchinson is char- 
acterised as the friend of liberty. He is styled 
Madame Gracchia : for the assembly is supposed 

M m 



274 H U T 

to consist of ladies, oicl and young, orators fair liiced' 
and fair spoken, with a goodly nuni?ber of scolds. 
The act was so unpopular that Shirley negatived it, 
though it was well known that in his heart he ap- 
proved the thing. Mr. H. maintained his popularity 
some years alter this. He was then judge of pro- 
bate, having succeeded his uncle Edward Hutchin- 
son, who died in 1752. His conduct in this office 
had endeared him to many. He was tender and 
compassionate, had a generous sympathy with the 
children of affliction, and often wiped the tear from 
the eye of the mourner. In 1758, he was appoint- 
ed lieut. governour, which gave pleasure to all 
classes of people : his deportment gave him a 
further interest in their affections. He was affable 
and condescending in his manners, yet upon pub- 
lick occasions he appeared with great dignity, and 
stepped with majesty and grace. In 1760, he was 
appointed chief justice. This raised a popu- 
lar clamour : it gave offence especially to one of the 
most brilliant families of the province, who had 
merited a large share of the publick esteem. The 
branches of this family were high whigs ; one of 
them had been promised a seat on the bench the 
first vacancy, and now saw his expectations frus- 
trated. They shook the rods of their wrath against 
all who were in the government, and threaten- 
ed the man who was the instrument of. their disap- 
pointment.* 

* The 29th day of April, 1775, the writer of this memoir pass- 
ed the afternoon with the late venerable judge Trowbridsje at his 
house in Cambridge;. It was a time of very earnest and anxious 
expectation. The judge made this observation after a very sol- 
emn pause : " It was a most unhappy thing that Mr. H. was 
ever chief justice of our court. What (.) said, ' that he would 

set the province in flames, if he perished by the fire,' has com»- 
to pass. He, poor nvin ! suffers ; and what are we coming to ? 
I thought little of it at the time. I made every exertion in favour 
of Mr. H. and tliink now he was the best man to be there, if the 
people had been satisfied, and he had never looked beyond it. But 
I now think it was unhappy for us all. And 1 fully believe this 
war would have been put off many years, if gov. H. had not been 



H U T 275 

In 1760, Pownall left the province, and Hutchin- 
son presided as chief magistrate. His ambition 
was gratified. His influence was used to advance 
his relations to places of profit, some of them to 
honourable stations, for which they were not qiiali- 
fied. His ruling passions often biassed his judgment, 
and stimulated him to act a part injurious to him- 
self, as well as prejudicial to the province. At one 
time he held the places of lieut. governour, coun- 
sellor, judge of probate, chief justice. Sec. These 
offices, with his own property, would enable him to 
live handsomely in the style of a gentleman. But 
he wanted to be rich. High life has its charms, and 
he wished to give a splendour to his station. This 
Mall account for certain peculiarities in his conduct, 
which brought upon him the charge of profusion 
and meanness. 

The friends of gov. Pownall, were enemies to 
Hutchinson. The patriots of Boston hailed Pow- 
nall as their friend, because he was a whig. A club 
of sturdy whigs, who met at the battery in the nor- 
thern section of the town, endeavoured to render the 
administration of his .predecessor odious. It was 
said the governour was sometimes seen amidst this 
merry association. It is certain that they were 
frequently visited by friends of a higher order, . 
when certain points were to be carried in town 
meeting. At other times they admitted into their 
company many of the lower class, whose tongues 
had no bridle, when Hutchinson and Shirley were 
to be aspersed. 

While Mr. Hutchinson was on the bench of 
judges he performed his duty so well, that his man- 
ner of getting the place was forgotten. He was so 
much a favourite with the house of representatives, 

made chief justice !" He spoke of Hutchinson as a man of £!fre?t 
abiUties, who could fit himself in a very litile time for any busi- 
ness ; and told likewise how their friendship was broken off, 
which manifested that ^ov. H. coukl be guilty of mean resent- 
ment, and sordid ingratitude. 



276 H U T 

in the year 1763, that they chose hira agent to the 
court of Great Britain. In this election he had all 
the votes of both houses except eight. 

The state of our affairs, at that period, was criti- 
cal. Jasper Mauduit was unequal to the business 
assigned him. Bollan was left out of the agency, 
though every way capable and assiduous, because 
he was an episcopalian ; Mauduit was a dissenter, 
but more pious than judicious ; he looked upon the 
most important concerns of Massachusetts with 
frigid indifference, except his z^eal was excited 
to convert Indians ; his brother was also the 
tool of the ministry. Mr. Hutchinson was prevent- 
ed going, by the advice of Bernard, till he could ob- 
tain permission to leave the province, of which he 
was lieut. governour. He wrote to lord Halifax, 
who complied with his request. But then the tide 
of his influence had turned, the popular gale was 
changed, and the general court voted not to send 
sin agent. He was sorely mortified, but his friends 
could not help him ; and his enemies rejoiced at 
the effect it had upon him. They had exerted 
themselves, totis viribus, to persuade the general 
court, that he was a man of arbitrary notions, and 
would seek his own aggrandizement more than the 
advantage of his constituents. 

The next year the stamp act passed the British 
parliament. Secretary Oliver was stamp master in 
Boston. His office was pulled down, August 14, 
1765, the day the act was to be in force. Mr. H. 
being his brother in law, was also the object of po- 
litical animosity ; riots increased till the town was 
completely under the influence of a mob, whose 
fierce spirits were let loose to do mischief. 

The house of the lieut. governour was torn to 
•pieces within a fortnight of the first lawless attack 
upon the secretary. This excited the attention of 
the friends of order. The militia were called out 
the next evening, and they put a stop to all riotous 
proceedings. But those who were active in doing 



HUT 277 

the mischief were never called to account by the 
civil authority. There was a publick grant to Mr. 
H, of jf. 3194 17s. 6d. and to other sufferers in pro- 
portion. 

Mr. Hutchinson grew still more unpopular the 
ensuing years. He had many friends, however, 
who never could harbour an ill thought of him till 
his letters were published, which he sent to England, 
wherein he advised, that '• colonial privileges should 
be abridged." He always declared to these friends 
that his sentiments were contrary. Among them 
were clergymen of great respectability, and many 
sober-minded citizens. They believed him a friend 
to the province, as well as to the New England 
churches. He read to them letters, which he- wrote 
in favour of the people, and against the arbitrary 
measures of the British court. But this was a mere 
artifice, and made his character more odious after it 
was fully discovered. 

On the evening of the 5th of March, 1770, when 
a party of British soldiers fired upon the inhabi- 
tants of Boston, he had a most difficult business to 
manage ; but he behaved with so much discretion 
in his advice to the commanding officer of the 
troops, and his address to the people, that his ene- 
mies could not speak a word against him, with all 
their violence against the soldiers. His prudence 
calmed the tumult of the people. 

In 1771, Mr. H. received his commission, as 
governour of Massachusetts bay, and from this time 
he became completely subservient to the views of 
the British ministry. He entered into a controversy 
with the general court, in which he asserted and en- 
deavoured to prove the right of the British parlia- 
ment to tax America. In this he did not succeed 
as he expected. It was evident that the manage- 
ment of the argument was superiour on the other 
side, and it was said the ministry, instead of being 
pleased, were rather disgusted, that he should make 
it a subject of controversy. It was a thing to be 



£78 HUT 

taken for granted i not to be discussed. Whoever 
reads the newspapers, from 1771 to the commence- 
ment of the war, may get a good idea of Hutchin- 
•son's character. He had his eulogists in the Ga- 
zette or Newsletter ; and the writings on the other 
side of the most respectable class were in the Bos- 
ton Gazette, signed Marchmont Nedham, or Ao- 
uanglus. The first were supposed to flow from the 
pen of Mr. Quincy, a lawyer of great abilities and 
eloquence, who unhappily for his country lived but 
a short time after. The letters from Novanp-lus 
were written by one of the greatest statesmen this 
or any country has produced.* Gov. Hutchinson 
was superseded by gen. Gage, in 1774, and on his 

* Novanglus, who knew Hutchinson completely, thus describes 
Jiim (Boston Gazette, Feb. 20, 1775.) "That Hutchinson was 
amiable and exemplary in some respects, and very unamiable 
and unexemplary in others, is certain truth, otherwise he never 
would have retained so much popularity on the one hand, nor 
made so pernicious a use of it on the other. His behaviour in 
several important offices was with fidelity and integrity in cases 
which did not affect his political system, but he bent all his offices 
to that. Had he continued steadfast to those principles in religion 
and government which he professed in former life, and which 
alone had secured him the confidence of the people, and all-his 
importance, he would have lived and died respected and beloved, 
and done honour to his native country. But by renouncing those 
principles and that conduct which had made him and all his an- 
cestors respectable, his character is now considered by all Amer- 
ica, and the best part of the three kingdoms (notwithstanding the 
countenance he has received from the ministry) as a man who 
by all his actions aimed at making himself great at the expense of 
the liberties of his native country. He was open to flattery to 
such a remarkable degree that any who would flatter him were 
sure of his friendship ; and every one who would not was sure of 
his enmity. He was credulous in a ridiculous degree of every 
thing^ which favoured his own plans, and equally incredulous of 
every thing which made against him. His natural and acquired 
abiliti'^s were certainly above the common standard, but were 
greatly exaggerated by persons whom he had admitted to power. 
His industry was prodigious, and his knowledge lay chiefly in the 
Jaws, politicks and history of this province, of which he had long 
«xperience, yet with all his advantages, he never was master of 
the true character of his native country, nor even of Nev/ England, 
and the Massachusetts Bay. 



HUT 279 

arrival at Boston, he embarked for England. He 
was called to give an account ot his administration, 
or to describe the state of the colonies, which he 
did in such a manner as met the views and designs 
of the British cabinet, who took him into high fa- 
vour, and made him giddy with vain expectation. 
Two instances, which show the imbecility of a mind 
once strong and vigorous, and also how ignorant 
a wise man may become, who neglects pure sources 
of information, shall be here related. The writer 
of this article vouches for their authenticity. 

The governours Hutchinson, Carlton and Tryon 
were called upon for their opinion upon the ques- 
tion about going to war with America. Mr. H. 
said that the people would not, with their armies, re- 
sist the authority and power of Great Britain. " That 
a few troops would be sufficient to quell them if 
they did make opposition." Gen. Carlton spake 
to this purpose, " that America might easily be con- 
quered, but they would want a considerable army 
for their purpose. That he would not pretend to 
march to New York or Boston without 10,000 
men." Try on, said, " it would take large armies 
and much time to bring America to their feet. The 
power of Great Britain was equal to anything ; but 
all that power must be exerted before they put the 
monster in chains." 

Another thing is a proof of the vanity of his mind. 
He wrote to a friend in Boston that his services 
were so acceptable to his majesty's ministers, that 
he was to have a peerage. He observed on his own 
part how small his estate was. that he could never 
appear in the character of a peer of the realm. But 
was told the honour would be accompanied with 
such lucrative appendages as would banish all con- 
cern of this kind from his mind. His advice was 
follow^ed at the beginning of the war. The battle 
of Bunker hill convinced the army of Britain, that 
the Americans would fight, and the capture of Bur- 
«goyne opened the eyes of the ministry as well as of 



280 JAM 

the nation. Hutchinson lived retired at Bromp- 
ton. He received no mark of honour from the 
court ; his literary friends visited him ; he often 
made dinners at which were assembled the Ameri- 
can loyalists and others attached to the same cause» 
In the spring of the year, 1780, he was taken ill 
after returning from a journey. His feelings had 
been deeply wounded by the death of a most amia- 
ble daughter, and of his youngest son. Each had 
pulmonary complaints, to which he was also sub- 
ject. The daughter died, Sept. 21, 1771 ; his son 
William, Feb. 20, 1780. The father soon followed; 
he was very sick from the beginning of April, and 
died June 3d of the same year. He was buried on 
the 9th at Croyden ; Charles Paxton, Mr. Clarke, 
and the rev. Dr. Chandler were three of his bear- 
ers. He left no other works than those which he 
published in America. His history of Massachu- 
setts is a most valuable collection of facts, but wants 
the style of an historian. It is sufficiently known 
to excuse our saying any thing more of it, 

James, rev. Mr. pastor of the church in Charles- 
town, arrived in New England in 1652. He was of 
Lincolnshire, Great Britain. He was invited to take 
the pastoral care of the church in Charlestown in the 
place of Mr. Wilson. Soon after his settlement, 
Mr. Zachary Symmes was chosen teacher of this 
church. He came over, in 1634, with Mr. Lathrop, 
and has left a name recorded among the worthies of 
the land. Mr. James' reputation is more clouded. 
He was involved in some disputes with the people 
of his society, which ended in his separation. Dif- 
ferent accounts are given of his conduct, and per- 
*haps blame may be attached to both parties. John- 
son says, "seeds of prejudice were sown against 
liim by the enemies of the work of the Lord." Gov- 
crnour Winthrop relates the affair differently : " The 
teacher, Mr. Symmes, and most of the brethren had 
taken offence at divers speeches of his, he being a 
melancholy man, and full of causeless jealousies, 



J OH 281 

&c. for which they had dealt with him both in pub- 
lick and private. But receiving no satisfaction, they 
wrote to all the neighbouring churches for advice 
and help in this case, who sending chosen men 
(most elders) they met on the 4th day of the first 
month, 1635 ; and finding the pastor very faulty, 
yet because they had not dealt with him in due or- 
der, (for of two witnesses adduced one was the 
accuser) they advised, that if they could not com- 
fortably close, himself, and such as stood on his 
part (if they would) should desire dismission, which 
should be granted them, for awarding extremities ; 
but if he persisted, &c. the church should cast hiiu 
out I ! He went to New-Haven, and there spent 
the remainder of his days. 

Johnson Isaac, was the son of Abraham John- 
son, esq. of Clipsham, in the county of Rutland,. 
Great Britain. He may be called the father of Bos- 
ton, as it was he who persuaded gov. Winthrop and 
the company to cross over the south side of the 
river Charles. He was the richest man of all ther 
planters, and Was filled with pious zeal to encourage 
the plantation. The affairs of the company were 
committed to five persons in England, and five who 
were going over to the new settlement. Those 
last mentioned, were Winthrop, Dudley, Johnson, 
Saltonstall, and Revel. The confidence, which- 
the whole corporation had in Mr, Johnson, is evi- 
dent from their electing him one of the referees iu 
the dispute between J. and S. Brown, and capt* 
Endicot 1629. The Browns complained of the 
abuse they had received at Naumkeake, and de- 
manded damages. It does not appear how the dis» 
pute was settled ; but it appears, that John Win- 
throp, and Isaac Johnson, together with two cler- 
gymen, the rev. Mr. White, and J. Davenport, 
were chosen to meet with four on the other side, 
who were to finish the business. Mr. J. built 
his house upon a hill in Boston. Tremont street 
passes by it. He was a man greatly beltfved. 
N n 



282 1 O H 

Had he lived he would have been among the most 
distinguished characters of Massachusetts; but he 
died, September 20, 1630, about two in the morn- 
ing. The death of such a man spread a melan- 
choly paleness upon every countenance. " He was 
a holy man and wise," says gov. Winthrop, '• and 
died in sweet peace, leaving a part of his substance 
to the colon)'." Before his death, he expressed 
his joy to see a church of Christ gathered in Amer- 
ica, and was buried, at his own request, in part of 
the ground on Tremontane, which is between 
school street and court street. The people mani- 
fested their attachment, by ordering their bodies to 
be buried near him, as they died. It has continued 
a burial ground ever since. He died without chil- 
dren. He married the lady Arabella, daughter of 
the earl of Lincoln. This virtuous woman died a 
short time before her husband. She was taken sick 
at Salem. Among others that were seized with 
mortal sickness, says Mr. Hubbard, was the lady 
Arabella, wife of Mr. Isaac Johnson, who possibly 
had not taken the counsel of our saviour, " to set 
down and consider what the cost would be after she 
began to build. For coming from a paradise of 
plenty and pleasure, which she enjoyed in the fam- 
ily of a noble earldome, into a wilderness of wants, 
it proved too strong a temptation for her, so as the 
virtues of her mind were not able to stem the tide 
of the many adversities of her outward condition, 
which she soon saw after her arrival, she was sur- 
rounded with, for which she in a short time after 
ended her days at Salem, where she first landed, 
and was soon after solemnly interred, as the condi- 
tion of those times would bear, leaving her hus- 
band (a worthy gentleman of note for piety and 
■wisdom) a sorrowful mourner, and so overwhelm- 
ed in a flood of tears and grief, that about a month 
after, they carried him after her into another world." 
In his will, which he made in England, he left 
a great nuBJber of legacies to his friends, and to 



J O H 283 

pious and charitable uses. To Mr. Cotton from 
whom, to the praise of God's grace, he acknowl- 
edges he had received much comfort and help in 
his spiritual estate, he gave 30 pounds and a gown 
cloth. The advowson and right of patronage of the 
parish church of Clipsham, he gave to Mr. Dudley 
and Mr. Cotton. He limited his funeral charges to 
250 pounds. A small part of this charge sufficed to 
bury him in Boston. Here many scattered bless- 
ings upon his grave, and bedewed it with tears of 
friendship, v/hile their minds were soothed with the 
sweet remembrance of his virtues. Hutchinson. 
HuhhardPs mss, 

JoHxsoN Samuel, president of King's College, 
New York, v/as born at Guilford, Connecticut, of 
very worthy parents. In his puerile years he dis- 
covered a lively fancy, a thirst for knowledge, and 
improved every opportunity to cultivate his mind. 
The rudiments of his education he received from 
Jared Eliot, who then kept school at Guilford. It is 
a very great advantage to youth to receive early im- 
pressions from an able hand. Many of the teach- 
ers in country villages, and we may extend our ob- 
servations to larger towns, are not the men to dis- 
seminate virtue, or promote knowledge. The sub- 
ject of our notice was fortunate in having Mr. E. for 
his instructor, but suffered from the ignorance of 
others. He had talents and resolution to overcome 
every difficulty; but how many ingenious youth sink 
under discouragement, w^here the master shakes his 
iron rods, but has no faculty of winning the souls 
of his pupils or giving instruction ! Mr. J. entered 
Yale College, 1710, was graduated at the usual 
time, and very soon was chosen tutor, being con- 
sidered as the best scholar in his class. In 1724, 
he was ordained at West Haven, being then in the 
24th year of his age. 

While he was tutor of the college, valuable pre- 
sents of modern books were made to the library. 
Mr. agent Dummer's donation was 800 vols. A 



584 J O H 

fondness for the new library brought together a 
number of young gentlemen of literary taste, who 
mutually assisted each other in studying the philos- 
ophers, as well as the divines. The result of the 
study and consultation was, that ordinations in the 
New England churches were not valid ; that the 
New England divines were very ignorant, and their 
preaching contemptible. The knowledge acquired 
by reading the works of Barrow, Patrick, South, 
Tillotson, &c. was *' like a flood of light breaking 
in upon the mind.'* Few, however, Mr. Johnson 
observed, discovered an inclination or curiosity to 
consult any of the abovementioned writers, except 
Messrs. Cutler, Eliot, Hart, Whittelsey, Wetmore, 
Brown, and himself. All these men, from drinking 
deeply of these streams, became converts to the 
church of England. 

Dr. Johnson went to England for orders, in com- 
pany with Dr. Cutler, and Mr. Brown ; Mr. Wet- 
more followed. Three of the gentlemen, Messrs. 
Hart, Eliot and Whittlesey, upon further consider- 
ation, did not enter into the views of those, who em- 
braced episcopacy. They lived to an old age, 
ministers of the churches where they first settled, 
and were among the most eminent and useful men 
in New England. Mr. Johnson was appointed 
missionary of the London Society for Stratford, 
where he arrived Nov. 4, 1723. He was the only 
episcopal clergyman in the colony. His society 
consisted of 30 families in the place of his mission, 
and about 40 more in the neighbouring towns, to 
whom he officiated as often as he could make it con- 
venient. When Burnet was governour of New 
York, he cultivated Mr. Johnson's acquaintance, 
and esteemed him for his talents as well as relation 
to the episcopal church. But this led the clergy- 
man into some difficulty, as the governour was from 
the liberal school of theology, and Mr. Johnson 
inclined rather to the high church. Gov. Burnet 
persuaded him to read Clarke, Hoadley, Whiston, 



J O H 285 

&c. and it was feared by some of his friends that 
he would be borne down by the weight of their rea-- 
sonings. But in this case he would have lost the 
friendship and patronage of the bishops and divines, 
to whom he had been introduced in England, who 
were all on the opposite side, in the great Bangorian 
controversy. 

Among the friends of Mr. Johnson, Dean Berk- 
ley was the most useiVil and afftctionate. He came 
to America in 1729, and resided two years at Rhode 
Island. These years were very interesting to a man, 
who had a thirst for knowledge. Mr. Johnson did 
not fail to cultivate his acquaintance, and improve 
every advantage arising from such exalted friend- 
ship. Berkley was capable of improving the hu- 
man race. His virtue was equal to his genius and 
learning. What a luxury for those, who were inti- 
mate with him l After he left New England he kept 
up his correspondence with Mr. Johnson, present- 
ed him with many books for his own use, and gave 
to Yale College by his advice, above 1000 volumes, 
besides his farm on Rhode Island, the income of 
which was appropriated to the three best classical 
scholars. 

In 1725, Mr. Johnson engaged in a controversy 
with Mr. Dickenson of Elizabethtown, New Jersey, 
a gentleman of whom the ministers of the church of 
England speak with the highest respect. Mr. 
Dickenson's book was printed in Boston with u 
preface written by Mr. Foxcroft, to which Dr. 
Johnson replied. 

In 1723, Mr. Graham, of Woodbury, published 
*' a ballad," in which he was satirical on several 
episcopal ministers in Connecticut. This led to 
another publication, from the pen of Dr. Johnson, 
styled, " plain reasons for conforming to the 
church." To this Mr. Graham wrote an answer ; 
Mr. Johnson replied, and the controversy was kept 
up, each of them writing another tract, the last of 
which was in 1736, from Mr. Johnson. These dc- 



286 J O H 

fences of the church gained Mr. Johnson so mucii 
reputation, that he was, in the year 1743, presented, 
by the university of Oxford, with a degree of Doc- 
tor in Dhinity, 

In 1746, Dr. Johnson printed a work, which he 
called, a " system of morality^'''' containing the ^^ first 
princijJes of moral philosophy^ or ethicks in a chain 
of necessary consequences from important facts.''^ 

He also prepared another work, 1752, " a compen- 
dium of logic ^^^ Sec. which issued from the press of 
Franklin, and had a high recommendation from 
that philosophick gentleman. 

Mr. Johnson was so distinguished a scholar, that 
the trustees of King's College, New York, elected 
him their first president. He continued in this of- 
fice from 1754 to 1763, and then retired from his 
station at New York to the town of Stratford in 
Connecticut, where he had passed his youthful days 
in laborious and active services for the church of 
England ; nor was his ardour in that cause cooled 
by age. Amidst many bodily infirmities, he had 
a lively, vigorous exercise of his mind. He em- 
ployed his time and pen in making proselytes to 
the church of England. He wrote an appendix to 
the pamphlet, which first appeared against Dr. 
Mayhew's considerations of the conduct of the soci- 
ety for propagating the gospel. The vindication 
of the society, to which Dr. Johnson's appendix is 
annexed, is anonymous. It is said to be the pro- 
duction of Dr. Caner, minister of the king's chapel, 
Boston, who was supposed, at the time, to be only 
the editor ; but the report comes from good author- 
ity, that he was the writer. In 1765, he published 
an English grammar and catechism. Also another 
edition of his logick, and also a Hebrew grammar, 
in which he undertakes to prove the " Hebrew to 
be the mother of all languages, and that it would be 
proper to begin a learned education with that lan- 
guage, which tends to all other languages, and bor- 
rows from none," 



JOS 287 

No man could enjoy a more happy old age than 
Dr. Johnson. He had resources in his own mind, 
was foad of books, was able to correspond with his 
friends at a distance, and to give pleasure to those 
with whom he conversed at home. Beside this 
general tranquillity, he had tlie consolations of reli- 
gion, looking beyond this world to that place where 
the virtues of the rational mind wull be improved, 
and the christian's hope be turned into fruition. 

He died January 6, 1772, aged 76, Mr. Leaming 
preached at his funeral : Mr. Beach also printed a 
sermon in which he endeavoured to do justice to 
his character. Private letters, C handler'' s life of 
president Johnson, 

JoLYFE John, esq. died at a great age, Nov. 
1701, *' a man who had been very useful in former 
days, and a member of the council in latter days.'* 
T. M. H. mss. 

JossELYN John, gentleman, is better known 
by his writings, than by any biographical sketches 
given of him. A person of the name is mentioned 
among the commissioners that came over in the 
reign of Charles II. to put F. Gorges into posses- 
sion of his lands. He was justice of the peace in 
England. Mr. Hutchinson says, that John Josselyn 
was his brother. He discovered upon all occasions 
a prejudice against the people of the Massachusetts 
colony. He published, in 1672, a book called, " iVifw 
England'' s rarities dASQ,o\^v^(S.^ m birds, beasts, fishes, 
serpents and plants of that country. Together with 
the physical and chirurgical remedies wherewith the 
natives constantly use to cure their distempers, 
luounis and sores, also, a description of an Indian 
squa, in all her bravery, with a poem not improper- 
ly conferred upon \itY,2i\sQ,-:i. chronological table,'''' &c. 
Mr. Josselyn says, he came into New England, 
1663. On the 28th of July, he arrived at Boston. 

In 1674, Josselyn printed " an account of two voy- 
ages to New England, with a dedication to the pre- 
iideutand fellows of the royal society." 



283 K N O 

Knollys Hanserd came over to America in 
1638. He had been, nine years, a minister of the 
church of England, and then became a noncon- 
formist. In Boston, he was accused of Antinomi- 
anism, and meeting with trouble on this account, 
he M'ent lo Dover, in New Hampshire, where he 
preached four years, and then returned to the old 
country. While he was at Dover, he wrote a letter, 
full of resentment, against the Massachusetts colony. 
He declared, *' they were more arbitrary than the 
high commission court, and that there was no real 
religion in the country." A copy of this letter was 
sent to gov. Winthrop. Mr. Knollys being much 
aftccted with the discovery, went to Boston, and at 
the publick lecture made a humble confession of 
his faults, and wrote a retraction to his friends, in 
England, which he left with the governour to send. 
According to Dr. Belknap he was an eccentrick 
character. In their political altercations he joined 
with capt. Underhiil, and, upon one occasion, was 
armed with a pistol to defend him ; another had a 
bible mounted on a halbert for an ensign, and with 
this ridiculous parade threatened the other party to 
the combat. He gathered a Baptist church in Lon- 
don, and, it is said, often preached to a thousand 
hearers. Mr. Henry Jessy, who was in the church, 
with Mr. Lathrop, was baptised by him. He was 
or.e of those who signed the Baptist confession of 
faith, in 1643, a copy ofwhich is preserved. He 
coi'tinued many years a minister of the church in 
London, which he had exerted himself to establish ; 
and died, Sept. 19, 1691, aged 93 years, *'a very 
respectable old man." 

Knox Henry, major general in the American 
army, was born in Boston, July 25, 1750. He was 
the sixth of 12 children, most of whom died in in- 
fancy. He had only a common school education ; 
but when he was a youth discovered fine talents, 
ai d a desire to obtain information of the great cha- 
racters of antiquity, warriors, patriots and eminent 



K N O 289 

statesmen. From love of the science, he studied 
military tacticks before there was any appearance of 
a war with Great Britain. He was an officer of the 
Boston grenadiers, a company formed and com- 
manded by major Dowes, who exerted himself to 
make the militia respectable, and was an officer of 
great activity and fine address. Knox was also ac- 
tive and enterprising, fond of applause ; a distin- 
guished character among those ardent sons of liber- 
ty, who blazed in the cause of their country ; and 
continually gave presages of his future eminence. 

He entered the army under honourable and flatter- 
ing circumstances. As soon as hostilities com- 
menced, he was appointed colonel of the battalion 
of artillery. There were several very excellent 
officers, who had been educated under major Adi- 
no Paddock in his military school ; but they were 
young, not equal to the command, and were 
willing to serve under col. Knox. Paddock was 
a loyalist. It is true, that capt. Mason, who had 
raised the artillery company, to whom major Pad- 
dock succeeded as captain, was on the spot. But 
he, instead of seeking for the command, offered to 
serve as lieut. colonel, if Mr. Knox might be appoint- 
ed colonel. The regiment of artillery was soon en- 
larged to a brigade, and Mr, Knox appointed brigadier 
general. He was the idol of his brigade, and high- 
ly respectable through the whole army. He was the 
soldier's friend, and the companion of Washington. 
The accounts of the several campaigns, in every his- 
tory of the American war, make his services appear 
prominent. In 1781, after the British army sur- 
rendered at Yorktown, he had a commission of ma- 
jor general granted to him by congress. As his 
rank in the line of the army did not entitle him to 
this distinction, it gave offence to some of the 
brigadier generals, who were older on the list ; 
but it was the desire of the army as a decent tribute 
of respect to the artillery, to whose effoiis and skill 
the success of the campaign was so much owing, 

o o 



290 K N O 

The capture of lord Cornwallis and his army is cer» 
tainly the most splendid event of those times, and 
the name of gen. Knox ought therefore to be handed 
down to posterity among the heroes of the revolution. 

In an excellent discourse, delivered after the 
death of the general, by iMden Bradford, esq. it is 
well observed, " that his exertions were united with 
that illustrious patriot, gen. Washington, in compos- 
ing the discontented and mutinous spirit which ap- 
peared in some part of the army, at the close of the 
war, and which threatened the country with the 
most calamitous events. And, by the same exalted 
character, he was selected as one well qualified to 
fill a responsible and important office in the federal 
government, which, under providence, has been the 
instrument of our political welfare and happiness.'* 

After gen. Knox had resigned his office as minis- 
ter of war, he employed his time in the district of 
Maine, and made every exertion to promote its set- 
tlement and cultivation. Here he possessed a large 
landed estate, and had the pleasure of beholding the 
wilderness subdued, and a vast extent of country, 
which had only exhibited the gloominess of the for- 
est, filled with inhabitants, enjoying the blessings 
and improvements of social life. He did not, how- 
ever, wholly seclude himself from publick cares, 
nor from the circles of the gay world. A part of 
the year he generally passed in the metropolis of 
old Massachusetts ; and he was called to fill very 
respectable and honourable posts in the government. 
No man was ever more decided in his opinions, or 
undisguised in his conduct. His political sentiments 
were correct. His talents, his publick spirit, zeal 
to promote literary, humane and religious institu- 
tions, and his philanthropy, ought never to be for- 
gotten. 

Gen. Knox bad a very robust constitution, en- 
joyed fine health and spirits, and his friends indulg- 
ed the hope of his living many years ; but he died 
suddenly, October 25th, 1806, etat. 56. 



i 

1 

L A N 291 

Lancdon Samuel, D. D. A. A. S. was born 
ill Boston of poor, but respectable, parents. He ac- 
quired the rudiments of knowledge at the north 
grammar school, and being an amiable youth, very 
studious, with uncommon talents, he found friends, 
who made every exertion to give him a liberal edu- 
cation. Having entered Harvard College, in 1736, 
he was graduated at the usual time, and went to 
Portsmouth. New Hampshire, to take charge ot the 
grammar school in that town. His reputation for 
learning and piety was very high, and, in 1745, he 
was invited to preach in the first church at Ports- 
mouth, as assistant to Mr. Fitch. He was ordained 
pastor, 1747. His first publication was a sermon 
preached at the ordination of the late Dr. M'Clin- 
tock, 1756. In 1759, he printed a thanksgiving 
discourse, which is one of the best occasional dis- 
courses extant; in 1761, he assisted col. Blanchard 
in delineating a map of New Hampshire. This 
was published, as their Joint production, and inscrib- 
ed to Charles Tovvnsend, secretary at war. That 
gentleman obtained a diploma of doctor in divinity, 
from Aberdeen, for Mr. Langdon. In 1765, the 
doctor published " an examination of Sandiman's 
letters," in 8vo. ; this was followed by a " summa- 
ry of christian faith and practice." By his manner 
of expressing himself upon the person of Christ, he 
was charged with Arianism ; but he always declared 
to the contrary, and professed himself a Trinitarian, 
and also a Calvinist, in those points which were dis- 
cussed at the synod of Dort. In the year 1774, 
Dr. Langdon was chosen president of Harvard Col- 
lege. His character, as a very zealous whig, was 
of more advantage to him, at this time, than his re- 
putation in the republick of letters. Mr. Hancock 
was in the corporation, and it was suggested to him, 
that prejudices were spreading against several 
in the government of the society, who were 
on the side of the tories ; and that the interest 
and honour of the college were likely to suffer. 



^92 L A T 

When president Langdon took the chair, it gave 
great delight to the sons of liberty. He warmly es- 
poused their measures, and was chosen to preach 
the election sermon, 1775, a month after the com- 
mencement of the war. Many things, however, 
concurred to make his situation very unpleasant at 
Cambridge, He wanted judgment, and had no spir- 
it of government. He did not receive all that kind- 
ness from the students and officers, or legislature o^ 
the college, which his character, as a scholar and a 
christian, merited. He therefore, in 1780, resigned 
the presidency of that institution, and once more en- 
tered on the " milder task of teaching a church of 
Christ." He was installed at Hampton falls, 18th 
January, 17-1 ; and was one of the most useful 
ministers in the state. In 1788, he preached the 
election sermon at Concord : he was also a dis- 
tinguished member of the convention of New 
Hampshire, which adopted the federal constitution. 
He often, in that assembly, led their debates ; and 
he used all his influence to convince people of 
their error, who indulged prejudices against it. 
He lived to see his expectations realized, to en- 
joy the political blessings this constitution afford- 
ed to the country, and was himself a blessing 
to his flock. It has been well observed, " that his 
extensive knowledge, hospitality, patriotism and 
piety, secured to him, in his calm retreat, the re- 
spect and affection of the people of his charge, and 
of his numerous acquaintance."* 

He published, beside the works above tnentioned, 
observations on the Revelations, 8vo. 1791 ; several 
sermons on particular occasions ; a pamphlet, show- 
ing the mistakes of J. Ogden, rector of St. John's 
church, Portsmouth, 1792 ; also, remarks on Dr. 
Hopkins' scheme of divinity, 1794. 

^^ATHROP John, one of the fathers of New Eng- 
land, was educated at Oxford, as appears from A. 

* Alden's account of Portsmouth. 



L A T 293 

Wood, who mentions his name in Athenac Oxoni- 
enses. He was afterwards an independent minister 
in London. Mr. Jacob was the first minister of the 
independents, who went to Virginia in 1624, and 
was succeeded by Mr. Lathrop. About 40 of this 
religious society were imprisoned in 1632. The 
crime alledged was their assembling unlawfully. 
Many of them were afterwards released, but no fa- 
vour could be obtained for Mr. Lathrop. He re- 
quested that he might have liberty to depart the 
kingdom. The petition was presented to king 
Charles. Laud had discovered the most virulent 
prejudice against him. He hated puritans of every 
denomination, and felt the more rcLientment against 
a man, who was a leader of their straitest sect, a 
minister of a church in the city, which made them- 
selves independent of all ecclesiastical rule or pow- 
er, except what was exercised by the brethren. 
Having obtained liberty of the king, Mr. Lathrop 
sailed from England in the year 1634, and arrived 
at Boston the 18th day of September. Being 
there on the sacrament day, the first week in Octo- 
ber, he desired liberty to be present at the admin- 
istration of the ordinance, but said, " that he durst 
not desire to partake in it, because he was not then 
in order (being dismissed from his former congre- 
gation) and he thought it not fit suddenly to be ad- 
mitted into any other for example's sake, and be- 
cause of the deceitfulness of man's heart." He met 
the ideas of our fathers upon this subject, for which 
they are censured in a letter, supposed to be written 
by Mr. Cotton, before he came over to America : 
*' I am constrained to bear witness against your 
judgment and practice, that you think no man may 
be admitted to the sacrament, though a member of 
the catholick church, except he be a member of 
some particular church " 

Mr. Lathrop and his people went to Scituate. 
But in the year 1639, there was some difference of 
opinion, which caused a division ; and a considerable 



294 LEE 

number, with their pastor, removed to Barnstabki 
Several letters upon the subject of their removal are 
preserved in the hands of the family. It was a mat- 
ter of surprise ; and excited many observations at 
the time. The church at Barnstable, however, 
grew and flourished under his fruitful ministry ; the 
town increased in numbers, and remains, to this 
day, conspicuous in the county for numbers, wealth, 
trade, social order, and religious character. Mr. 
Lathrop died in 1653. His character was that of a 
learned, pious, meek christian minister, who was 
in season and out of season, ready to every labour of 
his office, and to promote the good of the settlementi, 
He lefta numerous posterity. The late Isaac Lothrop, 
esq. a gentleman of Plymouth, and member of the his- 
torical society, was one of his descendants. In Con- 
necticut and Massachusetts several are magistrates, 
and others very respectable in private life ; two aged 
clergymen, also, among the most worthy and dis- 
tinguished of the profession in this state are his great 
grandsons, the rev. Dr. Joseph Lathrop of West 
Springfield, and rev. Dr. John Lathrop of Boston. 
Lee Samuel, M. A. fellow of Wadham College, 
wasproctor of the university of Oxford, A. D. 1651. 
He possessed a strong and brilliant imagination^ 
and his learning was very extensive. He printed a 
large book in Latin de excidio Antichristi, and also 
a description of Solomon's temple, folio, 1659, He 
eame into New England the latter part of the reign 
of Charles 2d, and was pastor of the church at Bris- 
tol, in Rhode Island, which was then part of the col- 
ony of Plymouth, Two reasons are assigned for 
his leaving Great Britain. One. that he was afraid 
of the growth of popery ; another, that he was in- 
vited to be president of Harvard College. He was 
never pleased with the manners of the people, nor 
with the state of things in New England. Being 
eccentric in his genius and extravagant in speech, 
he disgusted many, who admired his talents, and 
read his books with delight. He was rich, haugh- 



LEE 295 

ty, and overbearing. Many anecdotes are related of 
him, which served as a kind of entertainment to the 
generation which succeeded those who kneiu him. 
He was returning to his native country, after the 
revolution, and was taken prisoner by a French pri- 
vateer and carried into St. Maloes. After suffering 
every thing which the prejudices of bigots could 
add to what national antipathies prompted, he died 
a victim to their cruelty. 

He published a book, which has been much read 
in New England. *' The triumph of mercy in the 
chariot of praise." He also published the *' joy of 
faith,'* and a discourse upon the " ten tribes, Svo. 
and a number of single sermons.'* 

Leete William, governour of Connecticut, 
came into New England, A. D. 1638. He was 
bred a lawyer in the old country, and was clerk in 
the bishop's court, but gave up his office on account 
of the spiritual tyranny which was exercised in those 
courts. He sailed in the vessel with Eaton and 
Hopkins, and joined Mr. Whitfield's company, who 
laid the foundation of the town of Guilford. His 
name is among the six planters who signed the 
deeds and writings at New Haven, in Newman's 
barn, Sept. 1639, when they purchased the lands 
of the squaw Sachem ; and afterwards 31st of Jan- 
uary the same year wlien they confirmed the agree- 
ment ; as appears from the records of that colony. 
He was also one of the seven pillars of Mr. Whit- 
field's church. When Mr. W. went to England, 
several of the first planters went with him, but Mr. 
Leete remained at Guilford, where he lived much 
esteemed by the people of that town, and highly re- 
spected by the colony. He was chosen a magis- 
trate in 1643. In 1658, he was elected deputy gov- 
ernour of New Haven; and in 1661, placed in the 
chair of government. He was a rigid puritan and 
stern republican. In 1660, he contrived to evade 
the mandates of Charles 2d, concerning the regi- 
cides, though urged by the authority of the gov- 



296 h E V 

ernour of Massachusetts. Whaley and GofFe had 
taken refuge in Connecticut. They made them- 
selves known to Mr. Leete, and he was charged 
with concealing them ; but he was not intimidated 
by the wrath of their pursuers. Even when the 
regicides would have given themselves up, as vic- 
tims to publick justice, rather than expose their 
friends to a prosecution, he prevented them, and as- 
sisted in every measure for their comfort and safe- 
ty. In 1665, when the colonies united, he was 
chosen one of the magistrates of Connecticut ; in 
1669, deputy governour ; and annually received this 
honour from the people, till in 1676, they chq^e 
him their first magistrate. After he was chosen 
governour of Connecticut, he removed to Hartford, 
where he lived to a good old age, and in 1683 fin- 
ished his course. In both colonies, says Dr. Trum- 
bull, *' he presided in times of the greatest difficul- 
ty ; yet always conducted with such integrity and 
wisdom as to meet the publick approbation." That 
excellent historian mentions an instance where, in 
his latter days, he departed from those rigid princi- 
ples of opposition to royalty, v;hich once influenced 
him. " I'he acts of trade and navigation were ex- 
ceedingly grievous to the colonies. They viewed 
them as utterly inconsistent with their chartered 
rights. This made them extremely unwilling to 
submit to them. Massachusetts never would fully 
submit ; but as it was matter of great and continu- 
al complaint against the colonies, and as his majes- 
ty insisted on the respective governours taking the 
oath respecting trade and navigation, it was judged 
expedient that gov. Leete should take it, in pres- 
ence of the assembly. It was accoraingly admin- 
istered to him at the session in May, i680." 

Leverett Thomas, one of the first inhabitants 
of Boston. He was ruling eider of the old church 
aiid ordained to that office, October iTth, 1633, the 
same dav that Mr. Cotton was ordanied teacher, 



LEV 2d7 

Leverett John, governour of the Massachu- 
setts colony, had been a soldier, and distinguished 
himself in several actions abroad. The first notice 
xve have of him, in our annals, is, in 1642, when the 
Narraganset Indians were preparing to make war 
upon the English, He was sent, with Mr. Edward 
Hutchinson, to Miantinomo, to make complaint of 
his duplicity, and to require their sachem to come 
to Boston, or send two of his chief counsellors, 
that complete satisfaction might be obtained cone 
cerning his conduct. He was, in the year 1653, 
one of the commissioners of Oliver Cromwell to 
raise five hundred volunteers to assist in the war a» 
gainst the Dutch, at Manhadoes. They were re- 
quired to do this, by the lord Protector, at the re^ 
quest of the New Haven colony, who had reasou 
to dread every thing from their Dutch neighbours, 
and the Indians, who were instigated, by that peo- 
ple, to fall upon the nearest English settlements. 
Mr. L. was after this employed in places of trust. 
He was in England at the restoration, and an advo- 
cate for the colony. Upon his return, he was chos- 
en a member of the general assembly for Boston ; 
in 1664, he was appointed major general, and assist- 
ant in 1665 ; in 1671, he was promoted to be de-, 
puty governour. He succeeded Willoughby, a man 
of two much liberality for his brethren ; for he op- 
posed all the persecutions against the Baptists. In 
1673, gov. Bellingham died, the only surviving pa- 
tentee of the charter, and Mr. Leverett was intro- 
duced to the chair. He was so beloved by the col- 
ony, that his election was never contested ; and he 
descended with honour to the grave, March 16, 
1678. Mr. Nowel preached at the funeral, and Mr. 
Allen an occasional sermon the Sabbath after. 

Leverett John, F. R. S. president of Harvard 
College, was a grandson of gov. Leverett. He was 
born in Boston, and graduated, A. D. 1680. He soon 
made a figure among gentlemen of the civil order, 
was chosen representative for Boston at the general 



298 LEV 

court, and, for a number of years, was speaker of 
the assembly. He was advanced to his majesty's 
council, and appointed judge of the superiour 
court. All these honourable posts he sustained 
with dignity, integi'ity, and the applause of the peo- 
ple. He was also appointed one of the three com- 
missioners with power of controlling the army, sent 
against Port Royal. 

In 1707, this honourable gentleman was chosen 
president of Harvard College, which station he a- 
dorned by his learning, and excellent character. He 
was one of gov. Dudley's particular friends, and 
did all in his power to serve him, when he was in 
the civil line, and was very instrumental in making 
his administration acceptable to the people. In Dr. 
Cotton Mather's diary, he says. " I received a visit 
from gov. Dudley, June 16, 1702." With other 
observations of a familiar nature, he said to his ex- 
cellency, " 1 am humbly of opinion, that it will be 
your wisdom to carry an indifferent hand towards 
all parties, if I may use so coarse a word as parties, 
and give occasion to none to say that any have mo- 
nopolized you, or that you take your measures 
from them alone. I should approve it, if any other 
should say, by no means let the people have cause 
to say, that you take all your measures from the 
two Mr. Mathers. By the same rule I may say 
without offence, by no means let any people say, 
that you go by no measures in your conduct but 
Mr. Byefield's and Mr. Leverett's." This conver- 
sation was related to these gentlemen, and tended 
to increase their prejudices against the good doc- 
tors. While president Leverett was in the chair, 
they seldom or ever attended the overseers' board. It 
also prevented Dr. Cotton Mather from being *' fel- 
low of the corporation ;" but he had the mortifica- 
tion to see Dr. Colman and Mr. Brattle, men, who 
were not even on friendly terms with him, members 
of the corporation, and all college affairs under their 
influence. He complained bitterly of this thing 
in his diaries. 



L O V 299 

President Leverett received honours from abroad, 
as well as from his own country. From a sense of 
his literary merit, he was elected fellow of the royal 
society, London. 

In the character given of him after his death, writ- 
ten at Cambridge,it is observed, *' that formorethan 
forty years, he shone with near a meridian lustre ; 
the morning of his life being so bright, that it shone 
like noon, and both the college and country rejoic- 
ed greatly in his early and uncommon light, and 
now his sun yet seems to us to have gone down at 
noon, such being his vigour and brightness to the 
age of sixty two." 

His death was very sudden, on the Lord's day 
morning, 3d of May, 1724, dying, as is supposed, 
in his sleep, without a groan or struggle. 

Mr. Welsteed, one of the tutors, had an eloquent, 
and a very pathetick, oration in the hall upon the sor- 
rowful occasion. 

Locke Samuel, 17. D. president of Harvard 
College, v/as a man of very uncommon powers of 
mind, a very accomplished preacher, with a most 
extraordinary gift in prayer. He was graduated in 
1755, and ordained minister of Sherburne two years 
after, where he continued till he was invited to Cam- 
bridge. He was installed president of the college, 
March 21, 1770, and resigned his office, December 
1, 1773. 

LovELL John, a celebrated preceptor in Boston, 
was graduated at Harvard College, A. D. 1728. 
Two years after he had received the honours of that 
seminary, the selectmen of Boston chose him as- 
sistant to Dr. Nathaniel Williams, for many years 
master of the south grammar school. In this office 
he succeeded the famous Jeremy Gridley, who then 
entered upon his professional pursuits. Upon the 
death of master Williams, in 1738, he was advanc- 
ed to the chief place, and continued to discharge 
the duties of that important station with great dili- 
gence and skill, above forty years. Most of our 



300 L O W 

first characters, in church and state, during that peri- 
od, had been under his tuition. He was an ex- 
cellent critick and classical scholar ; his learning 
was extensive, and he had a clear understanding, 
and solid judgment Though a rigid disciplinarian 
in his school, yet he was an agreeable companion, 
and very humourous. He wrote many fugitive 
pieces, and several political and theological pam- 
phlets. In 1742, when Mr. Faneuil died, he was 
chosen to deliver a funeral oration, which he pro- 
nounced in Faneuil hall, March 14, the day of the 
annual town meeting. This was printed, and is an 
elegant composition, in which the virtues of that mu- 
jiificent friend of the town are celebrated. 

In the controversy between Great Britain and 
the colonies, master Lovell took a very decided 
part. He joined the loyalists, and went away with 
the fleet and army, which left Boston, March 17, 
1776, and passed the rest of his days in Halifax. 

Lowell John, minister of the first church in 
Newburyport, was born in Boston, March 14, 1703 
— 4, was graduated at Harvard College, 1721 ; or- 
dained January 19, 1725 — 6, and died, May 15, 
1767, in the 64th year of his age, and 42d of his 
ministry. He was distinguished among his brethren, 
as a scholar and a gentleman ; as a lover of good men, 
though of difierent denominations, and diftbring sen- 
timents ; amiable in his domestick and social con- 
nections, and happily furnished with that kind of 
knowledge which enabled him to be very useful 
as a minister of religion. Tucker'' s funeral sermon, 

Lowell John, L L. D. and A. A. S. son of 
the rev. Mr. L. was born at Newbury, 1744, was 
graduated at Harvard College, 1756, and appli- 
ed himself to the study of law. He very soon 
rose to great eminence in the profession, and he 
grew in publick esteem, and the affections of his 
acquaintance, as he advanced into life. The integ- 
rity of his character always secured him tlie confi= 
dence of those^ who admired his abilities. In the 



LOW 30i 

year 1761, he removed from Newburyport to Bos. 
ton ; was chosen representative for the town at the 
general court, and one of their twelve delegates to 
the convention, which formed the constitution for 
the commonwealth. In that assembly, he was very 
much distinguished by his knowledge and elo- 
quence. Being one of the coinmittee, who drew 
the plan, he was fully acquainted with the subject 
whenever he took a part in the debates ; his speech- 
es were perspicuous, while the energy of his ex- 
pression and glow of manner made them very inter- 
esting and entertaining. In 1781, he was chosen 
member of congress, and, in December, 1782, he 
was appointed, by that body, one of the three judges 
of the court of appeals, a tribunal established by 
congress in the year 1780, for the trial of all appeals 
from the courts of admiralty of the several states. 
When the federal government was established, he 
was appointed, by president Washington, judge of 
the district court in Massachusetts. He remained 
in that office, till the new organization of the federal 
judiciary in 1801, when he was appointed chief jus- 
tice of the circuit court for the first circuit, com- 
prehending the District of Maine, New Hampshire, 
Massachusetts and Rhode Island. In the discharge 
of that office he continued until the repeal of the 
act in 1802. 

On the bench judge Lowell appeared with pecu- 
liar and engaging lustre. With the most conde- 
scending and obliging manners he maintained the 
dignity of his station. In critical causes, he was 
mature and deliberate in making up a judgment, 
and his quick apprehension and faculty for discrim- 
ination, enabled him to give despatch to ordinary 
business. People of different political sentiments, 
had the same persuasion of his knowledge, and im- 
partiality ; and those against whom judgment was 
given, were disposed to confide in the equity and 
legality of it. Had the act been continued, which 
established the circuit courts, he would have had a 



302 L U D 

greater sphere of usefulness, and for the display of 
his talents. 

When he left publick business and retired to pri- 
vate life, his mind was active in promoting benevo- 
lent associations, and literary improvements. He 
had a fondness for agriculture, gardening, botany, 
and other branches of natural history. He first 
originated the subscription for a professorship of 
natural history at the university, and was among 
the most generous subscribers. 

Judge Lowell was always a great friend to Har- 
vard College ; his mind was constantly employed in 
devising means for its prosperity. When there was 
a vacancy in the corporation in 1784, he was elect- 
ed one of that board, and was, for eighteen years, 
a very attentive, firm and judicious member. The 
critical state of the publick funds during this peri- 
od caused some doubtful and anxious expecta- 
tions, and required of the members of the corpora- 
tion peculiar watchfulness over the property they 
had in trust. Mr. L. acquainted himself with the 
interest and circumstances of the college, and its 
treasury was specially benefitted by his discreet and 
active exertions. He i/as one of the most active of 
our publick characters, in forwarding the plan in 
1780, for establishing an academy of arts and sci- 
ences ; and the society elected him one of their 
counsellors. They had also such a sense of his lit- 
erary merits that they chose him, with an unani- 
mous vote, to deliver an oration when president Bow- 
doin died. The service was performed in Brattle- 
street church, January 26, 1791. The oration was 
published in one of the volumes of the academy. 
His other publications are without his name, but 
are specimens of elegant composition. He died, 
greatly lamented. May 6, 1802. 

Ludlow Roger, came with Mr. Warham and 
his company to Dorchester, in 1630, was chosen a 
magistrate, ai d was deputy governour of Massa- 
chusetts in 1634. He succeeded Thomas Dudley, 



L U D SOS 

who was promoted to the chief place in the room 
of gov. Winthrop, whom the freemen left out, for 
the sake of making a rotine in the office.* The 
next year, Mr. Ludlow was set aside even from 
the magistracy. It seems, he aimed at the govern- 
our's place, and was disappointed. For some rea- 
son or other, he protested against the choice, which 
offended the freemen. Instead of advancing him, 
therefore, they gave him an opportunity to enjoy 
private life. He soon after removed to Connecti- 
cut. He fixed his abode in Fairfield, and, being 
clerk of that town, had the care of all their records, 
which he carried off when he left New England, 
1654. He was a magistrate of Connecticut, or de- 
puty governour from the time of his coming into 
the colony to his departure. In 1648, he was one 
of the commissioners of the United colonies. He 
was chosen again in 1650, and several years after. At 
their meeting, 1653, they voted to carry on the war 
against the Dutch. He was full of resentment at the 
conduct of the people, who opposed the determina- 
tions of the commissioners. He was rash enough to 
head a party, who were ready to go from Fairfield to 
Manhadoes, and begin the war. Men of warm san- 
guine tempers are not apt to weigh consequences 
till it is too late. He gave so much offence as to 
make it best for him to leave the country. The 
least he could expect was to lose his offices. And 
the neglect of the people is apt to chill the frame of 
politicians, as much as their ingratitude can wound 

• " Mr. Cotton preached before the General Court this month, 
•nd delivered this doctrine, that the magistrate ought not to be 
hurried into the condition of a private man witliout just cause, 
and to be publickly convicted ; no more than the magistrate 
may now turn a private man out of his household, 8cc. without 
like publick trial. This falling in question in the court, and the 
opinion of the rest of the ministers being asked, it was referred 
for further consideration." Winthrofi'a Journal. 

This would be strange policy in some states of society. So 
far from being adopted by the tovereign people, at this time, that 
they let the ministers know, that all magistrates were only the 
creatures of their power, and should be shifted at their pleasure. 



:504 MAN 

the spirit. Dr. Trumbull gives Ludlow a high 
character. He says, he rendered very essential ser- 
vices to tlie commonwealth ; was a principal ia 
forming its c»iiginal constitution, and the compiler 
of the first Connecticut code, printed at Cambridge, 
1672. For jurisprudence he appears to have been 
secoiid to none, who came into New England at that 
time. Had he possessed a happier temper he would, 
probably, have been the idol of the people. 

Manning James, D. D. president of Brown 
College, Rhode Island, was born in New Jersey, 
Oct. 22, 1738 ; was graduated at the college of 
Princetown, 1761. He was ordained a preacher of 
the gospel, and acquired as much fame by his abil- 
ities and learning, as by his very fine voice and de- 
livery. As soon as they erected a college in Rhode 
Island and Providence plantations, he was invited 
to preside over that seminary. In 1764, Mr. Man- 
ning removed to Warren, where the legislature con- 
templated fixing the college. But a spacious build- 
ing being erected in the town of Providence, 
through the influence of some leading characters, 
the college was established in that town. President 
Manning removed in 1770, and continued to dis- 
charge the duties of his station to the great advan- 
tage of the institution, as long as he lived. The 
same year he was chosen pastor of the Baptist 
church, and was able to discharge the duties of 
president, and to preach to a very large parish. In 
1786, he was elected a delegate to congress. He 
was a strong federalist when the constitution was 
the subject of debate. He attended very frequent- 
ly the convention, which met in Boston, for the 
sake of hearing the arguments on both sides, that he 
might acquire greater strength to combat those, who 
opposed the constitution in the state of Rhode Island. 

He received his diploma of doctor in divinity 
from the university of Philadelphia. 

Finding it inconsistent with his other ofiices to 
attejid congress, he resigned his place, and gave his 



M A T 305 

whole attention to college duties, and no man was 
better calculated to make the institution flourish. 
He was suddenly called off the stage of action, 
by a fit of the apoplexy, and died, 24tn July, 1791, 
in the 53d year of his age. 

Mather RicHABi), minister of Dorchester, was 
the first of the family, who came over to New Eng- 
land ; and from him are descended many worthy 
and learned men, who have been celebrated in Eng- 
land, as well as in these new plantations. He was 
called a great man in his day by others, besides his 
descendants, who were never backward in celebra- 
ting the talents and literary accomplishments, on 
eminent christian virtues of their ancestors. Per- 
haps many men, among the wisest and best of their 
generation, have not been mentioned in a succeed- 
ing age, haying no friend to flatter, and no children 
to bear up the name. 

For more than a century the name of Mather was 
known and celebrated in every part of the land ; 
many branches are now cut off, and we must go out 
of the state of Massachusetts to find one engaged in 
the work of the ministry, though formerly so many 
of them UTre distinguished among the angels of the 
churches. " In all ages, there have been stars to 
lead men to the knowledge of the Lord Jesus 
Christ. Angelical men, employed in the ministry 
of our Lord, have been those happy stars. And we 
in the west have been so happy, as to see some of 
the first magnitude, among which was Mr, Richard 
Mather." Magnalia. 

He was born in the county of Lancaster, A. D. 
1596, His parents were respectable, and gave him 
a liberal education. He was educated at the uni- 
versity of Oxford, became a preacher in early life, 
was eminent for his pious discourses in the pulpit, 
and for conversation, but was suspended for his non- 
conformity, in 1633. He was again restored, and 
again suspended, and after some inquiry and debate, 
in his own mind, he resolved to leave the fair fields 



30$ MAT 

of his own country for the obscure places of the ivif- 
derness. In May, 1635, he sailed from Bristol, and 
arrived in Boston harbour, August 17. Two days 
previous to his arrival there was a tremenduous 
storm, of which he has given a printed account. 

He was ordained pastor of the church at Dorches- 
ter, August 23, 1636, and was a distinguished or- 
nament of the churches of New England. In the 
year 1669, he had a violent fit of the stone, to which 
he had been subject many years, and died 22d day 
of April. Though an old man, yet his death was a 
great loss, because his talents and industy enabled 
him to be useful, and, at this very time, he was mod- 
erator of a council, which had met in Boston to set- 
tle a dispute, and which led one of his brethren to 
write this epitaph^ Vixerat in synodis, moritur 
moderator in illis. He had been a leading charac- 
ter in every synod, which had met in New England, 
from his arrival to the time of his death. In 1639, 
there were 32 questions printed concerning church 
government. These were answered by the ministers 
of New England. Mr. R. Mather is said to have 
written the answer ; and, also, that the platform 
of church government, which was held in so much 
veneration for so many years, though now only re- 
sorted to upon convenient occasions, was chiefly 
composed by him. He prepared for the press a 
book entitled, a plea for the churches in New Eng- 
land, a large work. Besides these, he wrote several 
pamphlets to mark the difterence between the Con- 
gregational mode of government and the Presbyte- 
riaii establishment. 

In 1662, the famous synod was appointed by the 
general court to settle the controversy concerning 
the subjects of baptism, and also the consociation 
of churches. Certain propositions were drawn up, 
and presented to the general court, which were ac- 
cepted. One of these excited no small controversy, 
which has been kept up even to the present day. 
It is not likely that o\xx general Qourt will again med- 



MAT 307 

die with it; but there will be disputants among those, 
who have the spirit of religious controversy. It 
was the fifth proposition discussed by the synod, 
*' Whetherthose, who make a profession of religion, 
whereby they give themsehes up to God in a solemn 
co'Denant, and subject themsehes to the discifjlineof the 
churchy shall ha'oe the primiege of baptism for their 
children.'''' 

There were several, who opposed the voice of the 
synod, among them president Chnuncy, Mr. Da- 
venport, of New Haven, and Mr. Increase Mather, 
minister of the second church in Boston. 

Three very eminent divines were elected to man- 
age the controversy with them. Mr. Allen of Ded- 
ham, to answer president Chauncy, Mr. Richard 
Mather to write against Mr, Daijenport^ and Mr. 
Mitchel of Cambridge a younger divine, but Vir, 
claro nomine, to discuss the subject with Mather the 
younger. The books were well written, but the 
manner of writing, which Mr. R. Mather adopted, 
pleased old Mr. tligginson of Salem so much, that 
he said, " he was a pattern to all the answerers in 
the world.'''' 

From the general account of this eminent divine, 
his talents were adapted for controversy, and his 
knowledge of ecclesiastical affairs made him more 
qualified to write, than many ol his brethren. As a 
preacher, he was plain and practical, solid and judi- 
cious ; but less popular, than several of his sons, 
whose sermons and pulpit eloquence have been 
more applauded. 

He printed a treatise upon justification, and sev- 
eral small treatises, which were well spoken of ; and 
prepared several sermons for the press, which were 
never published. 

Mr. Mather was blessed with a number of chil- 
dren. He left four sons, all of whom were dis- 
tinguished preachers of the gospel, and of whom 
mention should undoubtedly be made in these bio- 
graphical sketches. 



30g MAT 

Mather Samuel, preached the first sermon 
"ivhich was delivered in the church at North Boston. 
He was afterwards settled at Dublin, where he died, 
A. D. 1671, having been laborious in his business, 
serviceable in his generation, and respectable among 
men of worth and talents. He was the author of a 
number of publications. 

Mather Nathaniel, who succeeded Samuel 
at Dublin, and was afterwards pastor of a church in 
London, was graduated at Harvard College, 1647. 

Mather Eleazfr, was graduated 1656, and 
was settled at Northampton 1661. He died at the 
age of 32. 

Of the fourth son, we are prepared to give a 
more circumstantial narrative. 

Mather Increase, D, D. president of Har- 
vard College, was graduated tlie same year with his 
brother Eleazer, and was invited to preach at the 
north church in Boston, rendered vacant by the re- 
signation of Mr. Mayo. He was ordained pastor, 
May 27, 1699. In 1681, he was invited to take 
charge of the college, and, at the commencement of 
this year, he moderated at the master's disputations, 
and conferred the degrees. But, upon consulting 
with his church, they refused to part with him, and 
Mr. Rogers was chosen president of the college. 
In 1684, Mr. Rogers died, and Mr. Mather was 
again honoured by an election to that office, and ac- 
cepted it upon certain conditions, by which he 
could comply with the request of the corporation, and 
satisf}-^ the objections of his own church. He was 
allowed to preach every Sabbath in Boston, and at- 
tend his duty as president of the college on w^eek 
days. His great industry and application to busi- 
ness enabled him to do this. He excelled likewise 
in extemporaneous performances, which rendered 
his ministerial duties more easy to him. He governed 
the college with great reputation till the year 1701 ,, 
when his age required relaxation from a multiplici- 
ty of cares, and he resigned his place at Cambridgei 



MAT 309 

While he was at the head of the college, he was 
presented by the fellows of the corporation and board 
of overseers, with a diploma of doctor in divinity.* 
Dr. Mather was eminent for his services both to 
' the church and commonwealth. He must have 
possessed talents and influence, or he never would 
have been chosen agent to the court of Great Bri- 
tain. He used all his influence to persuade the peo- 
ple never to surrender their charter, and published 
his reasons. He found in Randolph, therefore, a bit- 
ter enemy, who contrived the most base methods 
to ruin him. A letter was sent to sir Lionel Jen- 
kins, with the signature of Dr. Mather, which con- 
tained reflections upon him, and praises of Gates,, 
lord Shaftesbury, &.c. men, who were obnoxious to 
the king. There was such appearance of forgery, 

* By Mr. Mather's influence the general court passed an act, 
bearing date J'lne 27, 1692, for a new college charter, and sent 
it over to Great Britain for ti:e royal assent ; but the king nega- 
tived it, because it did not re3'c;"ve to him, by his goveinour, the 
power of H roy^l visitulion. Upon t!as, the general assembly of 
Ne^v England afier some time revised the act, and sent it back, 
with 4n aniei.duieni, admitting tlie k'ng by his governcnr and 
council in Ne.v i:>,g!and to be visitors of ihe college ; but the 
court not accepting the dintndnient, the affair was dropped, and 
the college left to act upon the foot of the old charter, which they 
had by George Dudley, in 1650. But it being proved by the 
new charter of the province, that when the general court passes 
the act, and sends it over to England for the royal assent, it con- 
tinues in force for three years, if it be not sooner repealed, the 
governours of the college took advantage of this clause, and pre- 
sented the president wilh a diploma of doctor of divinity, under 
the seal of the college, with the hands of the feilows annexeti to 
it, bearing date from Cambridge in New England, Ndv. 17, 
1692. Mr. M. accepted the diploma, but was never installed, 
nor did he assume the title for several years ; but the great servic- 
es he had done his country, his universal learning and goodness, 
together with his venerable old age, at length supplied the de- 
fects of the title, and confirmed l-.im in this honour with the uni- 
versal consent and approbation of his country. A'cal'a history, 
vol. ii. page 1 1 5. 

The expression " continuing in force three years" is not quite 
correct. The laws were perpetually in force, or for the term 
therein mentioned, unless the king, within three years, disallo^v 
:I:em. 



310 MAT 

that sir Lionel treated it with contempt. When 
this was told Dr. Mather, some years after, he ex- 
plained the business to that gentleman with his 
opinion, that Randolph wrote it. Upon this, Han- 
dolph brought an action against him ibr dtrfamation ; 
but the case was given in f ivour of the defendant. 
Randolph was not satisfied ; and it being the tri- 
umph of his power, he determined to bring another 
action, if it were only to vex and torment him. 
About this time the general assembly had fixed 
their eyes upon him, as a proper person to send to 
England to represent their grievances, and remon- 
strate ag;unst the arbitrary conduct of sir Edmund 
Andross. Randolph's writ would have prevented 
his voyage ; but he went on board the vessel in the 
night, April. 1688, and sailed immediately for Lon- 
don. When he arrived, he presented himself to 
king James, and described the situation of the colo- 
ny, and his majesty made a promise to redress griev- 
ances. He was afterwards introduced to the prince 
of Orange, and when king William and Mary were 
on the throne, all the New England agents address- 
ed their majesties for the restoration of their char- 
ters. Their applications were deferred on account 
of the affairs of Europe, which drew the king to Hol- 
land. In one audience, which they obtained of his 
majesty, April 28, 1691, Mr. Mather humbly pray- 
ed his majesty's favour to New England. " Your 
subjects," said he, '' have been willing to venture 
their lives to enlarge your dominions : the expedi- 
tion to Canada was a great and noble undertaking. 
May it please your majesty, in your great wisdom, 
also, to consider the circumstances of that people, 
as in your wisdom you have considered the circum- 
stances of England and Scotland. In New England, 
they differ from other plantations : they are called 
congregational and presbyterian ; so that such a 
government will not suit with the people of New 
England, as may be proper for people in the other 
lantations." 



MAT 311 

The several applications, which were made to the 
king ; the difference of opinion among the agents 
of New England ; the various conferences with the 
ministers, lawyers, and noblemen, who were friends 
to the colonies, are all related very minutely in the 
history of Massachusetts bay, and in the memoirs of 
Dr. Increase Mather, which his son published after 
his death. 

The new charter arrived, 14th May, 1691, and the 
general court appcnnted a day of thanksgiving for 
the safe arrival of his excellency the governour, 
and the rev. Mr. Increase Mather, who (sa) they) 
have industriously endeavoured the service of this 
people, and have brought over with them a settle- 
ment of government, in which their majesties have 
graciously given a distinguished mark of their royal 
favour and goodness. 

There were many, however, who disliked the 
abridgment of their privileges, and censured their 
agents, who accepted the new charter ; some of Mr. 
Mather's old friends forsook him; and he often 
complains of the ingratitude of those whom he wish- 
ed to serve. He was, to be sure, covered with ma- 
ny honours, which it was rare for a minister of the 
gospel to receive ; but he was troubled with many 
cares, which those are freed from, who confine 
themselves to their professional duties. He doubt- 
less thought full enough of his services, and many, 
on the other hand, were disposed unreasonably to 
take from him part of the credit, which he deserved. 
The dissenting ministers in London were his 
friends ; but they knew better how to estimate his 
piety than his policy. He had testimonies from 
some eminent statesmen of his abilities, probity and 
industry, particularly from lord Somers ; but if 
praises were bestowed upon him because he acted 
by their advice, the compliment is more to them- 
selves than to him. 

As the pastor of a church, Dr. Mather was high- 
ly esteemed by all classes of people, His gifts, his 



512 MAI 

preaching, and his writings were accounted exceL 
lent. He was the father of the New England cler- 
gy, and his name and character were held in venera- 
tion, not only by those, who knew him, but by suc- 
ceeding generations. He died, August 23, 1723, 
aged 85. Several discourses were printed upon the 
occasion ; but a more full account of him is in an 
octavo volume, called " Remarkables of the life of 
Dr. Increase Mather." 

His publication? were numerous. In the bool^ 
above mentioned, we have a catalogue of 85, be- 
side *' the learned and useful prefaces, which the 
publishers of many books obtained from him, as a 
beautiful porch unto thtm, and which collected 
would make a considerable volume." 

Mather Cotton, D. D. F. R. S. the eldest son 
of Dr. Increase Mather, was the most celebrated di- 
vine in New • ngland; and if his judgment had been 
equal to his imagination and memory, he would 
have ranked with the first scholars of any age. His 
mother vv^as daughter of the famous John Cotton, 
teacher of the first church in Boston. He was born 
in Boston, 1662, graduated at Harvard College, 
1678, ordained colleague with his father, May 27, 
1684, and died, Feb. 13, 1728. The obituary of 
the Boston Newsletter describes him, *'as the 
principal ornament of his country, and the greatest 
scholar that was ever bred in it. Besides his uni- 
versal learning, liis exalted piety and extensive 
charity, his entertaining wit and singular goodness 
of temper recommended him to all, who were judg- 
es of real and distinguished merit." Oldmixen and 
Douglass give an account of him very different. One 
only judges of him from his works ; he calls his 
history a miserable jargon, loaded with many learn- 
ed quotations, school boy exercises. Romanlike le- 
gends, and barbarous rhymes.* The other was 
prejudiced against him, and descends to e/ery kind 
pf low satire to render the man as well as the writer 

* JJiitish empire in America. 



MAT 313 

ridiculous. His own *' summary" however is not 
more elegant, nor are the facts equally correct. 

Dr. Mather had his enemies in town and country, 
and doubtless there were eccentricities in his con- 
duct, as well as weak things in his writings. He 
wrote too much to write well. He did every thing 
tvith amazing rapidity. It is said he could read a 
folio of many hundred pages, and write a sermon in 
the course of a forenoon. He became acquainted 
with every thing by a kind of intuition, and was al- 
so a man of prodigious industry. With all his at- 
tention to literary pursuits, and his active services, 
he never neglected any of his parochial duties ; and 
also allowed himself time for private devotion, 
spending one day of the week in fasting and prayer. 
He had less influence in the affairs of the common- 
wealth than his father, and the events of his life 
were not so various. The clergy also treated him 
Avith less respect, although they were ready to ac- 
knowledge, that he had superiour abilities to the 
old gentleman, and a vast deal more learning. 
There was a singular gravity in the deportment of 
Dr. Increase Mather, which qualified him for a pa- 
triarch ; Dr. C. Mather discovered often a levity 
of mind, a strange kind of vanity, a fondness for 
punning and making remarks inconsistent with the 
character of that age ; and which sometimes brought 
him into serious difficulties. He had a great ac- 
quaintance with books, but did not understand hu- 
man nature ; yet he imagined he had a claim to all 
that reverence from his brethren and the people, 
which his father's age as well as prudence gave 
him. 

His literary distinctions were chiefly from abroad. 
The university of Glasgow presented him with a 
diploma of doctor of divinity ; and his name is on 
the list of the fellows of the royal society in London. 
He is styled a fellow of Harvard College in the cata- 
logue ; buthe was only chosen among those, who were 
to be fellows, if the college charter were enlarged. 

R r 



314 MAT 

Twice he thought himself a candidate for the 
president's chair, ai:id kept days of fasting, that he 
might be directed how to act upon the occasion ; but 
he was disappointed. Gov. Dudley persuaded his 
friend Leverett to accept the place in 1707 ; and 
when that great man died, in 1726, and the voice 
of the people cried aloud for Dr. Mather, and it was 
declared even in the general court that he ought to 
be president, it was decided otherwise by the mem- 
bers of the corporation. The chair was first offer- 
ed to Dr. Colman, and Dr. Sewall, and afterwards 
to Mr. Wadsworth, who accepted it. In a private 
account of this transaction. Dr. M. says, " this day 
Dr. Sewall was chosen for his piety." In a pub;, 
lick speech made in the general assembly a_ mem- 
ber of the Boston seat declared, after Dr. Colman's 
election, that he was a man of no learning compar- 
ed with Dr. Mather.* 

One of the most elegant compositions of those 
times, was a funeral sermon upon Dr. Cotton Ma- 
ther, by this very Dr. Benjamin Colman, who there- 
in declares him to be by far the greatest man he 
ever was acquainted with. 

In the account of the funeral of Dr. Mather, in the 
newspapers, it seems, that great respect was paid to 
his remains. After the relatives, proceeded the lieut. 
governour, Mr. Dummer, his majesty's council, 
and house of representatives, a large train of minis- 
ters, justices, merchants, scholars and other princi- 
pal inhabitants both of men and women. The 
streets were crowded with people, and the windows 
filled with sorrowful spectators all the way to the 
burying place. 

He was a most voluminous writer ; his works 
amount to more than 300 tracts, histories, biograph- 
ical sketches, &c. besides the Magnalia, a folio 
volume. The " biblia Americana," in several vol- 
umes, ms. is deposited in the historical library. 

It would require more pages to give a just view 

• Letters and mss. in the cabinet of historical library. 



M A V 315 

of his writings, than we can allow to an article of 
our biography. A volume of memoirs was pub- 
lished by his son and successor, Dr. Samuel Ma- 
ther, which also contains every remarkable occur- 
rence in his life, a minute view of his studies, and 
of all his publications. His son was called to the of- 
fice of pastor of the old north church, 1732, and in 
1742 a separation took place by mutual agreement. 
The people who withdrew built another meeting 
house, where he was fixed till he ended his labours. 
He was a man of very extensive reading, and the 
author of several tracts. He received a diploma of 
doctor of divinity from Harvard College, 1773. He 
llied, June 27, 1785.* 

Maverick John, one of the fathers of Massa- 
chusetts, and first minister of the church in Dor- 
chester, came over with Ludlow, Rossiter, and others, 
from the counties of Devon, Dorset and Somerset- 
shire. In the beginning of the year 1630, a con- 
gregational church was gathered in the new hospi- 
tal at Plymouth by those, who intended to come to 
North America for the purpose of enjoying greater 
civil and religious privileges. They observed a 
day ot fasting and prayer to seek for the divine ap. 
probation and assistance. In the after part of the 
day they chose and called those godly ministers, 
rev. John Warham and rev. John Maverick, who 
lived 40 miles from Exet,er, to be their spiritual 
guides ; who expressed their acceptance, and were 
separated to the especial care of the intended emi- 
grants. Rev. John White of Dorchester, in Dorset, 
who was an active instrument in promoting the set- 
tlement of New Kngland, and had been the means 
of procuring the charter, being present, preached in 
the forepart of the day ; and, in the latter part, the 

* The other works of Dr. Samuel Mather are, an essay on 
gratitude, 1732; artillery election sermon, 1739; convention 
sermon, 1762 ; three funeral sermons ; dissertation on the Lord's 
prayer; dissertation on the venerable name of Jehovah, 1760 ; 
a poem, the sacred minister, 1772 ; America known to the an- 
cients, 1774 ; V. reply to a pamphlet entitled, salvation for all menj 
1780, £cc. 



316 M AV 

new installed pastors performed* They set sail on 
the 30th March, and arrived at Nantasket, May 30, 
where the master put them on shore, notwithstand- 
ing the engagement was to bring them up Charles 
river. Here they were left in a forlorn wilderness, 
destitute of any habitation, and most of the necessa- 
ries of life.* Mr. Maverick died in Boston, 1636, 
Feb. 30. A large part of his church had removed 
to Windsor, Connecticut, and it was his intention 
to follow them. He vv^as 60 years of age. He was 
a man " of a very humble spirit, and faithful in fur- 
thering the work of the Lord here, both in the 
churches and civil state." PVinthrop, 

Maverick Samuel had planted himself, at 
Noddle's island, when gov. Winthrop and his com- 
pany formed the settlement of Boston. " We went 
to Massachusetts," says he, "to find out a place 
for our sitting down. We went up Mystick river 
about 6 miles. We lay at Mr. Maverick's, and re- 
turned home on Saturday." He seemed to have in 
view trading with the Indians more than any thing 
else, but was a very hospitable, kind and benevolent 
man. His name is mentioned by some writers, as 
one of the west country people, who came over to 
Dorchester ; by other accounts, he was here before, 
and he certainly was different from that company in 
his religious principles and prejudices. His habits 
of life were also different. Josselyn relates several 
visits he made to him, and, from his account, he was 
a gentleman, in very independent circumstances, 
and lived in a very handsome style. f He was a 

• Topographical and chronological account of Dorchester, by 
the rev. T. M. Harris. 

t October 2d, 1639, about 9 o'clock in the morning, Mr. Ma- 
verick's negro woman came to my chamber window, and in her 
own country language and tune sang loud and shrill, going out to 
her, she used a great deal of respect to me, and willingly would 
Iiave expressed her grief in English ; but I apprehended it by her 
countenance and deportment, whereupon I repaired to niy host, 
to learn of him the cause, and resolved to intreat him in her be- 
half, for that 1 understood before, that she had been a queen ia 



MAY 317 

member of the church of England, but was made a 
freeman before the law was enacted, that every free- 
man should be a member of a congregational church, 
but never was chosen mto any office. He after- 
wards complained of the rigid discipline, and op- 
pressive bigotry of the government. 

His son, Samuel Maverick, esq. was in 1664 ap- 
pointed one of the commissioners to inquire into 
the state of the New England provinces, and settling 
the peace and security of the country, and discov- 
ered peculiar enmity to Massachusetts. In the pe- 
tition which the general court sent over to the king, 
after these commissioners were appointed, they say, 
that their adversaries had obtained this commission 
to injure them, and that one of the four was their 
professed enemy, meaning this Mr. Maverick. In 
1666, he delivered from the king a letter to the go- 
vernour, wherein he required five persons to be sent 
to England to answer lor the conduct of die colony. 
He could not however overcome the prejudices, or 
defeat the policy of the New England government. 
On the other hand, the revolution put them upon a 
foundation, which was not to be shaken by those, 
who sought their ruin. 

Mayhew Thomas, of Watertown. v/as appoint- 
ed governour of Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, 
and the adjacent islands. The earl of Sterling 
claimed all the islands between Cape Cod and Hud- 
son's river, and it is evident that they were not in- 
cluded in the New England government. The 
grant is made by his lordship to Thomas Mayhew, 
and his son Thomas, Oct. 10, 1641. And he grant- 

her own country, and observed a very humble and dutiful garb 
used towards her by another negro ,\vlio was her maid. Mr. M. 
was desirous to have a breed of negroes, and seeing s!ie would 
not yield by persuasion to company with a young negro man he 
had in his bouse, he commanded him will'd she nill'd she to go to 
bed to her, which was no sooner done than she kicked him out 
again, this she took in high disdain beyond ber slavery and this 
was the cause of her grief. 



318 MAY 

ed the samt powers of government which the Mas- 
sachusetts people enjoyed by their charter. Mr. 
Hutchinson says, that the grants of the soil of these 
islands could not vacate the rights of the Indian sa- 
chems and proprietors ; and supposes most of the 
inhabitants or proprietors derive their titles from 
Indian grants posterior to the grants to lord Sterl- 
ing, or to that made by his agent to Mr. May hew 
and son. The worthy govcrnour of these islands 
bent his mind to the business of instructing the In- 
dians He had talents to make a figure in the civil 
line ; but the name of Ma) hew is mostly known in 
our ecclesiastical annals. If any of the human race 
ever enjoyed the luxury of doing good ; if any 
christian ever could declare what it is to have peace, 
not as the world gives, but which passes the concep- 
tions of those who look not beyond this world, we 
may believe this was the happiness of the Mayhews. 

The first Indian, who gave any good evidence of 
being a christian, was under the instruction of Mr. 
Mayhew. It was in the year 1643, at Martha's 
Vineyard. The name of this pagan was Hiacoomes. 
He became a preacher to his own people. The 
worthy magistrates made further exertions, and 
** converted many from the error of their ways." 
The younger Mr. Mayhew became himself a preach- 
er, and this good work has been carried on by one 
and another of the name and family from that day 
to this. In 1657, many hundreds were added to the 
christian societies in that part of the country of such 
as might be said, were "holy in their conversation," 
and that did not need to be taught " the first prin- 
ciples of knowledge," besides many others, who 
were superficial professors. 

Mayhew John, had under his care, in the year 
1689, the Indian church, and they consisted of a 
hundred communicants, walking according to the 
rules of the gospel. 

Mayjiew Experience, son of John, was a gen- 
tleman of such superior endowments, according to 



MAY 319 

the late Dr. Chauncy, who was his mtimate friend, 
" that he would, had he been favoured with com- 
mon advantaj^es of education, have ranked among 
the first wordiies of New EngUind " He spent a 
life protr.'cxed several years beyond fcurscO' ;^ in 
the service of the aboriginals. He had a character 
for veracity and jud^jment, and in his book enti- 
tled, " Ir.dhm Converts," an octavo volume, pub- 
lished iii 1727, he gives an account of more than 
30 Indian ministers, and about 80 Indian men, 
women, and young persons, within the limits of one 
island, Martha's Vineyard. The same writer pub- 
liahed another book, in 1744, which will give him a 
name among great divines in any part of Christen- 
dom. It is entitled " grace defended," wherein 
the doctrines of" original sin, regeneration, the dif- 
ference betvveen common and special grace, are con- 
sidered and cleared." He received an honourary 
degree of A. M. at Harvard College, 1720. 

Mayhew ZaccSeus, son of Experience, was 
employed by " the Massachusetts society for pro- 
pagating the gospel among the Indians and others, 
in North America," till his death, in 1803. 

Mayhew Joseph, was also a son of Experience, 
graduated at Harvard College, 1730, and was chos- 
en tutor in 1739, and one of the fellows of the cor- 
poration. He was a man of superiour abilities and 
scholarship. 

Mayhew Jonathan, son of the rev. Experi- 
ence Mayhew, was born at Martha's Vineyard, 1720, 
was educated at Harvard College, and received the 
honours of that seminary, in 1744. While he was 
a youth he exhibited marks of an original genius, 
and such strength of mind, as was very uncommon. 
He wrote several essays in prose and verse, which 
were supposed to be the productions of riper years, 
before he finished his studies at Cambridge. In 
1747, he was called to take charge of the west 
church in Boston, and was ordained, June l7th ; Mr- 
Gay, of Hingham, preached the sermon upon the 



320 MAY 

occasion, Mr. Prescott, of Salem village, gave the 
fellowship of the churches, and the charge came 
from the lips of old Mr. Mayhew. He soon dis- 
covered a liberality of sentiment, and boldness of 
spirit, which excited surprise in some, and drew ob- 
servations from others. He spake with glowing 
sensibility against every priestly usurpation over the 
consciences of men, and with peculiar earnest- 
ness in favour of truth and religion. He was a 
steady and able advocate for religious and civil lib- 
erty, and refused to preach for doctrines the com- 
mandments of men. In 1749, he published several 
sermons upon " the difference between truth and 
falsehood, right and v.'rong ; the natural abilities of 
men for discerning these diiferences," Sec v/hich 
gave him a name among the best preachers, and 
Avhich manifest very uncommon talents with a zeal 
according to knowledge. It is the opinion of many, 
that the doctor never exceeded these early produc- 
tions, and it is certain that very few theological com- 
positions ever came near them. In 1750, he preach- 
ed a sermon on the 30th of January, which contained 
"reflections on the resistance made to king Charles." 
This discourse not only gave offence to episcopa- 
lians, but to many sober minded dissenters, who 
thought it discovered more playfulness of fancy and 
severity of satire than is consistent with the gravity 
of a clergyman, or the gentle spirit of Christianity, 
It was however much admired, and passed through 
several editions in England. It abounds in lively 
and pointed remarks, and is certainly less excep- 
tionable than many sermons preached 30th January 
by episcopal ministers of higli church opinions, who 
have abused all denominations of dissenters, while 
they have talked about the saintship, and angelick 
qualities, and divinity, of Charles, a frail mortal like 
themselves. The university of Aberdeen presented 
Mr. Mayhew with a diploma of doctor of divinity the 
year after this sermon was published. In the year 
1754, the doctor was chosen to preach the election 



MAY 321 

sermon, in which he speaks of the origin of civil 
government, and its end, in the style of a friend to 
liberty and the British constitution, asi settled at the 
revokition. He was a whig of the first magnitude. 
*' Having been initiated in youth," said he, in another 
discourse upon a different subject, ** in the doc- 
trines of civil liberty, as they were taught by such 
men as Plato, Demosthenes, Cicero, and other re- 
nowned persons, among the ancients ; and such as 
Sydney and Milton, Locke and Hoadley, among the 
moderns, I liked them ; they seemed rational. And 
having learnt from the holy scriptures, that wise, 
brave, and virtuous men were always friends to lib- 
erty ; that God gave the Israelites a king in his an- 
ger, because they had not sense and virtue enough 
to like a free commonwealth, and that where ' the 
spirit of the Lord is there is liberty,' this made 
me conclude that freedom was a great blessing,'* 
&c.* 

In 1755, the doctor published two solemn and 
pathetick sermons, after the earthquake, Nov. 23, 
with an '* appendix, giving a very particular account 
of the time, duration, process, extent and effects of 
the great earthquake." 

The same year he printed a large volume, con- 
taining fourteen sermons, " on hearing the word, 
receiving it with meekness," &c. In this book he 
inculcated the doctrines of grace, as he thought 
them delivered by Jesus Christ and his apostles. 
Moderate Calvinists have spoken well of several of 
these discourses, which are written in a very evan- 
gelical style, although it is evident the author had 
learnt some lessons in the school of Episcopius, 
Arminius and Locke. At the end of this volume is 
a sermon upon the shortness of life, in which are 
two marginal notes on the doctrines of the Trinity 
and Solomon's song, thcvt excited some severe re- 
marks from Trinitarians, and which all who agree 
with the doctor in sentiment, must wish were express - 

* Sermon on the repeal of the stamp act, 1766. 
s P 



322 MAY 

cd differently. Such subjects ought not to be treats 
ed in a ludicrous manner. The doctor himself *' de- 
clared his wish that they had not been written ;" 
and sent to England to prevent their being inserted 
in the London edition. They were, however, print- 
ed. Probably, his mind was not known at the 
time the book was emitted from the press. 

In 1763, Mr. East Apthorp published his " con- 
siderations on the institution and conduct of the so- 
ciety for propagating the gospel." This provoked 
a controversy in which several famous men engag- 
ed, and in which the brilliant abilities of Dr. May- 
hew were fully displayed. He wrote a book enti- 
tled, " observations on the charter and conduct of 
the society for propagating the gospel in foreign 
parts," &c. To this, a reply was made by several 
members of the society in America; and by Dr. 
Seeker, archbishop of Canterbury. The doctor repli- 
ed to the book entitled, a '• candid examination of his 
observatioub," supposed to be the joint production of 
Mr. Caner and Dr. Johnson, and declares the title 
page to be false ; he endeavours to shew the work 
to be destitute equally of candour and of truth. His 
second defence, or " remarks upon an anonymous 
tract entitled, an answer to Dr. Mayhew's observa- 
tions on the charter," &,c. is written with a more gen- 
tle spirit ; though we are frequently struck with the 
poignancy of his wit, it is evident that he avoided 
severe strokes of satire. The doctor wrote no more 
in the episcoi)al controversy ; but having printed 
two discourses '• upon the goodness of God," he 
was attacked, for certain sentiments there delivered, 
with some severity, by Mr, Cleveland, a minister in 
the county of Essex ; to whom he sent *' a letter of 
reproof," which discovered toa much warmth of 
temper in a minister of the gospel. It must be ac- 
knowledged, that the charge of Mr. C. was unfair 
and groundless ; but it was easy to write a defence 
of his sermons without such bitter sarcasms, and 
person*il reflections. 



MIN 323 

Mr. Hopkins of Great Barrington, afterwards of 
Newport, had a desire to engage Dr. Mayhew in a 
controversy. He wrote a book, *' upon the promis- 
es of the gospel," in which he makes remarks upon 
two sermons published by the doctor on Luke xiii. 
24f. These sermons speak of " promises to the un- 
Tegenerate." Many Calvinists thought the senti- 
ments advanced by Dr. Hopkins were contrary to 
truth, and of a very bad tendency, and wrote a- 
gainst his book ; but Dr. M. made no reply to him. 

In the year 1765, Dr. Mayhew preached the Dud- 
leian lecture, upon *' Popish idolatry," and the sue- 
ceeding year a particular discourse " upon the re- 
peal of the stamp act.*' These were his last pub- 
lications. He died, July 8, 1766, in the 46th year 
of his age. No American author ever obtained 
higher reputation. He would have done honour to 
any country by his character, or by his writings.* 

Mi NOT George Richards v/as a descendant 
from one of the most ancient families of Massachu- 
setts. The first of the name died at Dorchester, 
1671, in the 78th year of his age. He was a maji 
of respectability, and a ruling elder of the church. 
The subject of this article was born in Boston, re- 
ceived the rudiments of his education at the south 
latin school, and was admitted a student of Harvard 
'College in 1774. He was there distinguished for 
decorum of behaviour, a most amiable disposition, 
and close attention to his studies. He excelled in 
history and the belles lettres, and was, upon several 

* Besides the publications above mentioned, he printed two 
Yolinnes of sermons, 8vo, one addressed to the youth of his con- 
grc>;alion, the other upon the 1 19th psahii, 59th and 60th verses. 
These are not the docior's best performances,nor have they a high 
rank amonc^ sermons printed in New England. They are writ- 
ten in a very careless and difiuse style, and might be compressed 
into a book of small size. Many of his friends wondered that he 
published them. He printed also thanksgiving sermons, 1758, 
,59, 60 ; also a sermon, occasioned by the great fire, which i»ap- 
pcned, March 20, 1760 ; and u funeral sermon after the death of 
that upright magistrate, judge Sewall, who died the same yeai'. 



324 M I N 

occasions, the publick orator of his class. Beside 
the orations usually delivered at that seminary, he 
was chosen to speak upon a melancholy occasion^ 
when the university was deprived of Mr. Wads- 
worth, one of the most useful men in the govern- 
ment and instruction of the society.* No funeral 
oration was ever more interesting to the hearers, or 
better adapted to the occasion. It gained him great 
credit among gentleman of taste and learning, and 
** his classmates were eager to confer on him every 
honour which it was in their power to bestow." 
This class received the honours of the college in 
1778, by a general diploma. For several years there 
was no publick commencement, the country being 
then involved in the calamities of the revolutionary 
war. Mr. Minot entered upon the study of the 
law in Boston, with a gentleman of distinction in 
his profession, and had for his fellow student the 
late Fisher Ames, esq. The intimate friendship 

• John Wadswovth, who taught logick, metaphysicks and 
cthicks, was graduated, 1762, and elected tutor in 1770. He was 
distinguished for fine talents more than extensive erudition. No 
tutor was ever more calculated for the branch of instruction which 
fell to his share. As an acute logician, he made accurate dis- 
tinctions, was fluent in speech, and copious in ideas. He could 
make the worse appear the better reason, which, fiom love of 
disputation, he frequently did ; or defend truth in the most live- 
ly and ingenious manner. He was as fond of politicks as meta- 
physicks, and being on the side of the loyalists at the commenc- 
ement of the war, would have lost his tutorship, had it not 
been for the great affection of the students, and the exertions of 
some friends in the corporation, who urged in his favour this at- 
tachment of his pupils, and his admirable faculty of commu- 
nicating his ideas, so very necessary in an instructor, and so ve- 
ry seldom found. It was suggested likewise that his political er- 
rors were more in appearance than reality. His fondness 
for talking had led him to express himself imprudently some- 
times; but it was no more in his lieart than in his power to do any 
thing injurious to the commonwealth. He had, however, many 
political enemies, and obtained the vote only by one, though he 
was of the body, who made the election. lie was a member of 
the corporation from the year 1774 to 1778, the year of his death. 
Mr. VV. was a collateral branch of the same family with presi- 
dent Wadsworth, who died, 1 737. 



M I N 325 

formed at this juvenile age was strengthened by 
mutual expressions of good will, and tokens of es- 
teem, until death divided them. At the funeral of 
Judge Minot, Mr. Ames was one of the pall bearers. 
In the year 1781, when the commonwealth of Mas- 
sachusetts was blessed with a new constitution of 
government, Mr. M. was appointed clerk of the 
house of representatives. He was in this office dur- 
ing the insurrections, which distracted the publick 
concerns of the year 1786. By his office he was led 
to a minute acquaintance with the causes of the dis- 
turbance, the proceedings of the government, and the 
conduct of the army raised upon that occasion. 
These troubles of our country he reviewed in an 
historical narrative of the rebellion, which gave him 
high reputation as a writer ; it was read with great 
interest and pleasure by the inhabitants of Massa- 
chusetts. He was afterwards persuaded by his 
friends, to write a continuation of Hutchinson's his- 
tory of Massachusetts bay, which excited less at- 
tention, Jjut is a very valuable book ; and will fre- 
quently be in the hands of persons, who wish to 
know the affairs of their own country. The period 
he describes exhibits the most tranquil state of 
things. It was not prolifick of great events, like 
succeeding years of violence and rage, when politi- 
cians had their influence, and excited the tumult of 
the people ; when we beheld the traces of war in 
our own fields, or heard the cry of lj[uman distress 
in our houses, as well as the high way. Histories of 
such times are eagerly sought after, while many 
take up a book with frigid indifference, which only 
tells of peaceful regions, and seasons of publick fe- 
licity. 

Mr. Minot was twice elected by the people of 
Boston to deliver publick orations, which he per- 
formed to great acceptance. In 1 782, he pronounced 
the annual oration, 5th of March. And in 1800, he 
spake the funeral eulogy upon Washington, whic'i 
-has been highly praised in other phices besides his 



326 'MIN 

native town. In 1787, Mr. M. was chosen clerk of' 
the convention which adopted the constitution of 
the United States. In 1 792, -the governour and 
council appointed him judge af probate for the coun- 
ty of Suffolk. He was exactly fitted to fill this sta- 
tion. Soft, pleasant, and affable, he could speak peace 
to the troubled bosom, whilst he performed all the 
duties of his office with the purest integrity. The 
deep sensibilities of those who knew him in this 
station, when they heard of hisdeathj afforded affect- 
ing evidence of his worth. 

judge Minot was never fond of the hurry and bus- 
tle of the world, and therefore did not make that 
iigure at the bar, which some of his friends expect- 
ed from his talents and elocution. He was not bold 
in his conceptions, nor had he that discursive man- 
ner of reasoning, or pathos of expresssion, which 
are requisite for a first rate pleader. The legal 
knowledge he possessed, gave him advantage in 
other pursuits which were connected with his pro- 
fessional business ; and he cultivated his mind by a 
variety of studies. Among his companions his 
opinion was valued, and the publick opinion was 
such, as to gratify every feeling of an ambitious man, 
especially a man whose principles of virtue guided 
the path to honour. 

Besides his office of judge of probate, he was 
judge of the municipal court in the town of Boston. 
He was also president of the Massachusetts charita- 
ble fire society. Of this institution he was one of 
the founders, and also ol the Massachusetts histori- 
cal society. He was also a fellow of the American 
academy of arts and sciences. 

The character of judge Minot was delineated in 
the newspapers by several, who spaixC the language 
oftruth, while they felt the sympuhy of friendship. 
Justice was also done him by John Quincy Adams, 
esq. in an admirable oration before the charitable 
fire society. But the most interesting, full, and ac- 
curate memoir is in the 8th volume of the coUections 



MOO 327 

of the Massachusetts historical society. It was 
written by one whose compositions always show the 
hand of an elegant writer, and who in a relation to 
judge Minot was as the friend nearer than a broth- 
er. Whoever would wish for more! minute occur- 
rences in the life of Mr. Minot than can be ex- 
pected in a sketch for this work, is referred to that 
valuable paper.* Judge Minot died in the midst of 
his life and usefulness, Jan. 3d, 1802. 

His other publications are fugitive pieces in the 
magazines and newspapers ; also an oration deliver- 
ed before the charitable fire society. 

MooDEY Jo SHU A, was tlic son of William Mood- 
ey of Newbury, and graduated at Harvard College, 
1653 : he was a preacher in the town of Portsmouth, 
New Hampshire, 1658. A vote for his establish- 
ment there passed in 1660, though a church was 
not properly organized till 1671. " An account of 
the gathering of this church" is preserved in his 
own hand writing, and is a valuable document of 
our early history. While Cranfield was governour 
of New Hampshire, Mr. Moodey was the subject of 
persecution. Whenever a petty tyrant indulges his 
malignant humour, he renders himself ridiculous, 
as well as causes mischief to others. He imprison- 
ed this faithful pastor of the church in Portsmouth, 
because he did not administer the Lord's supper 
after the way of the church of England. After be. 
ing in prison 13 weeks, he was dismissed with a 
charge to preach no more. He was invited, how- 
ever, to Boston, and preached to the people of the 
first or old church from the year 1684, the time of 
his banishment, to 1693, and then, by advice of coun- 
cil, returned to his old charge at Portsmouth. 

Before he accepted the invitation of the Boston 
church, he was chosen president of the college, 
which place he declined to accept ; but acted as one 
of the fellows of the corporation. The people of 
Boston were very much attached to him, and much 

• Vol. 8th, pages 86, 7, 8, 9, &c. 



328 MOO, 

disappointed when he went to Portsmouth. He 
often visited them after he left the town ; and dur- 
ing a visit, in the year 1697, was taken ill, and died 
on the 4th July, etat. 65. Dr. Cotton Mather 
preached his funeral sermon, and preserved his 
name in the Magnalia. 

The only publication of Mr. Moodey is in the li- 
brary of the Massachusetts historical society. It is 
a small volume containing the substance of several 
sermons upon the " benefit of communion with God 
in his house."* 

* A letter from Mr. Bentley of Salem to Mr. Alden, the pre- 
sent librarian of 'the Massachusetts historical society, represents 
the character of Mr. Moodey to great advantage ; he certainly 
was one of the most judicious and worthy men of those times. 

" In the times of the witchcraft in Salem village, no person, 
distinguislied for property, and Vmown in the commercial world, 
was accused but Philip English. He came young into America 
from the island of Jersey, lived in the family of Mr. Holling- 
worth, a rich inhabitant of Salem, and afterwards married his on- 
ly daughter and child, Susanna. The wife had received a better 
education, than is common even at this day, as proofs, I hold, suf- 
ficiently discover. 

"From some prejudices, as early as April 21, 1692, she was 
accused of witchcraft, examined, and committed to prison in Sa- 
lem. Her firmness is memorable. Six weeks she was confin- 
ed ; but, being visited by a fond husband, her husband was al.so 
accused, and confined in the same prison. By the intercession of 
friends, and by a plea that the prison was crowded, they were re- 
moved to Arnold's gaol in Boston till the lime of trial. 

" In Boston, upon giving bail, they had the liberty of the town, 
only lodging in prison. Upon their arrival Messrs. Willard and 
Moodey visited them, and discovered every disposition to console 
them in their distress. On the day before they were to return to 
Salem for trial, Mr. Moodey waited upon them in the prison, and 
invited them to the publick worship. On the occasion he chose 
for the text, if they pkrsecutk tou in one city, flee to 
ANOTHER. In the discourse with a manly freedom he justified 
every attempt to escape from the forms of justice, when justice 
was violated in them. After service Mr. Moodey visited the 
prisoners in the gaol, and asked Mr English, whether he took no- 
lice of his discourse ? Mr. English said he did not know whether 
he had applied it as he ought, and wished some conversation up- 
on the subject. Mr. Moodey then frankly told him that his life 
was in danger, and he ought by all means to provide for an es- 
cape. IVIany, said he, have suffered. Mr. English then replied, " 
God will not suffer them to hurt me- Upon thiii rc:ply. IMrs. 



MOR 329 

Morton Charles, minister of the church in 
Charlestown, was the son of Nicholas Morton, min- 
ister of St. Mary Overy's, in Southwack. The fam- 
ily descended from a respectable stock ; among the 
ancient branches we find Thomas Morton, secreta- 
r}'^ to king Edward III. Charles, the eldest son of 
Nicholas, was born A. D. 1626, was sent to Wad- 
ham College, Oxford, and had the character of a 
studious and pious youth. He was, at the same 
time, zealous for the rites and ceremonies of the 

En^jlish said to her husband, do you not think that they, who have 
suffered already, are innocent ? He said, yes. Why then may 
not we suffer also ? Take Mr. Moodey's advice. Mr. Moodcy 
then told Mr. English that, if he would not carry his wife away, 
he would. He then informed him that he had persuaded several 
worthy persons in Boston to make provision for their conveyance 
out of the colony, and that a conveyance had been obtained, en- 
couraged by the governour, gaoler, &c. which Tvould come at 
midnight, and that proper recommendations had been obtained to 
gov, Fletcher of New York, so that he might give himself no 
concern about any one circumstance of the journey ; that all 
things were amply provided. The governour also gave letters, 
to gov. Fletcher, and, at the time appointed, Mr. Englisli, his 
wife, and daughter were taken and conveyed to New York. He 
found before his arrival, that Mr. Moodey had dispatched letters, 
and the governour, with many private gentlemen, came out to 
meet him ; and the governour entertained him at his own house, 
and paid him every attention while he remained in the city. On 
the next year he returned. 

" In all this business, Mr. Moodey openly justified Mr. Eng- 
lish, and, in defiance of all the prejudices which prevailed, ex- 
pressed his abhorrence of the measures, which had obliged a use- 
ful citizen to flee from the executioners. Mr. Moodey was com- 
mended by all discerning men ; but he felt the angry resentment 
of the deluded multitude of his own times, among whom some of 
high rank were included. He soon after left Boston and return- 
ed to Portsmouth. 

" Mrs. English died in 1 69i, at 42 years of age, in consequence 
of the ungenerous treatment she had received. Her husband di- 
ed at 84 years of age, in 1734. 

" This is the substance of the communications made to me at 
different times from madam Susanna Harthorne, his great-grand- 
daughter, who died in Salem, 28 August, 1802, at the age oi'80 
years, who received the account from the descendants of Mr. En- 
glish, who dwelt upon his obiigaiions to Mr. Moodey v/ith great 
pleasure." 

T t 



330 M O R 

church of England. He was afterwards chosen fel- 
low of the college, being an eminent scholar. He 
excelled in various branches of science, but was pe- 
culiarly fond of mathematicks. On this account, he 
drewthe attention, and experienced the friendship, of 
Dr. Wilkins then warden at the university, and af- 
terwards celebrated among the literati of Europe. 
Mr, Morton was one of the ejected ministers, in 
1668. Being unable to carry on the work of the 
ministry, he set up an academy at Newington Green. 
For this business he was very well qualified, and 
many excellent scholars were educated under his 
care. He had a peculiar talent of winning youth to 
the love of virtue and learning, both by his plea- 
sant conversation, and a familiar way of making 
difficult subjects easily intelligible. He came to 
New England in 1685, and was chosen pastor of 
the church at Charlestown, and vice president of Har- 
vard College. He died, April, 1697, in the 80th 
year of hi s age. 

In Dr. Calamy's " account of ejected ministers 
by the act of uniformity," is a vindication of him- 
self, written by this Charles Morton, from a charge 
brought against him for teaching at a private acade- 
my, contrary to the rules of the university, and 
thereby breaking his oath. This takes up more 
than 20 pages, 8vo. Besides this manuscript, which 
Avas transcribed by most of Mr. Morton's pupils, 
he drew up several systems of the arts and sciences, 
which he explained in his lectures. The doctor 
has also preserved another paper of his, which is en- 
titled, " advice to candidates for the ministry under 
the present discouraging circumstances." This was 
written during the oppressive, as well as licentious 
reign of Charles II. It is a paper of about 15 pag- 
es, containing excellent rules of conduct, and some 
of them will apply to other times. Mr. Morton be- 
ing vice president of Harvard College, while in this 
office, composed a system of logick, which was co- 
pied by the students every year as they becam.e 



'^ MOR 331 

members of that society. It was afterwards laid 
aside for one on a more improved plan, by Mr. 
Brattle. A copy of each is in the cabinet of the 
historical society, among the rare specimens of 
American literature,* 

Morton Nathaniel, one of the first planters 
of New Plymouth, should have an honourable men- 
tion among those, who have deserved well of their 
country. He is more celebrated as an author than 
for any remarkable events of his life. He was 
doubtless highly esteemed by his fellow planters, 
as they made him a magistrate, and he was secre- 
tary of the court for the jurisdiction of New 
Plymouth. Probably facts are preserved concern- 
ing him in the old colony, and some account of his 
active services, but these we have not been able to 
obtain. As a writer of the original events of the 
plantations he is known to all, who turn their atten- 
tion to the affairs of New England. No book has 
been oftener quoted than *' Morton's memorial.'* 
In this book are precious documents for the use of 
future historians, who recur to early times, or " re- 
member New England in the day of her smallest 
things." The work was printed in 1669. It is 
dedicated to gov. Prince, and has in its favour the 
testimony of two of the greatest and best divines of 
New England, Mr. Higginson of Salem, and Mr. 
Thacher of Weymouth, afterwards minister of the 
Old South, Boston. I'hey say the " author is an 
approved godly man ; and that the work is compil- 
ed with modesty of spirit, simplicity of style, and 
truth of matter, containing the annals of New Eng- 

* His other works are, the httle peacemaker, on Prov. xiii. 10 ; 
foolish pride, the Make-bate, 8vo, 1674; debts discharge. Rom. 
xiii. 8 ; the gaminp; humour considered and reproved ; the way 
of good men, for wise men to walk in, 1684; season birds, Jere- 
my viii. 7 ; meditations on the first chapters of Exodus, and be- 
ginning of Samuel. Other treatises are also mentioned by his bio- 
grapher, viz. the spirit of man, I. Thess. v. 25 ; tlie stork in tlui 
heavens, Jer. viii. 7 ; several pieces in the philosophical transac- 
tions, 1675. He was generally brief and compendious, being a 
declared enemy to large volumes. 



3312 N E L 

land for the space of 47 years, with special refer- 
ence to Plymouth colony, where the author made 
his constant abode." 

This memorial has gone through many editions. 
A gentleman, every way qualified, indulged the ex- 
pcctations of his friends a few years since, that he 
would give an improved edition of this w^ork. No- 
thing but the busy scenes of his active and useful 
life could have diverted him from finishing it. 

From some documents which have lately appear- 
ed, it is evident that Mr. Morton had his preju- 
dices, and suffered them to operate too poVverfally 
against the sectaries, which had disturbed the church 
and commonwealth. A letter from Gorton to the 
author of the memorial, preserved in Hutchinson's 
collection of papers, is well worthy of perusal. Nor 
was he impartial in all respects in describing the 
character of Roger Williams, as may be seen from 
comparing his account with Winthrop's journal, 
Callender's century sermon, or Backus's history. 

He doubtless thought his remarks were just, but 
excellent men frequently know not the spirit they 
are of. Men biassed by religious zeal, in peinting^ 
out the heresies of those, who diifer from them, 
should frequently pause for the sake of this inquiry, 
Who can understand iiis errors ? possibly we our- 
selves may be in the wrong. 

This worthy magistrate of New Plymouth died 
in a good old age, but the exact time wc are unable 
to tell. 

Nelson John, made a conspicuous figure at the 
time of the Massachusetts revolution, when the so- 
vereign people put down sir Edmund Andross, and 
appointed a different governour and council. He 
was at the head of the soldiers, who went and de- 
manded the fort, and to whom sir Edmund surren- 
dered himself. He was a near relation to sir Tho- 
mas Temple, and attached to the cause of freedom, 
though he v.as an episcopalion. His conduct shews 
him to be a man of virtue and principle. He 



N E L 535 

might have been highly in favour with Randolph, 
but he detested the arbitrary measures of the gov- 
ernment. On the other hand, had he conformed to 
the mnuners of the people, and left the church of 
England, he would have been, not only highly es- 
teemed, but exalted to honour after the revolution. 
On account of his being an episcopalian, Hutch- 
inson tells us, he was not allowed any share in the 
administration after it was settled. 

He went upon a trading voyage to Nova Scotia, 
and was taken prisoner. When he was at Quebec 
he sent a letter to the court of Massachusetts, which 
gave particular intimations of the designs of the 
French, and which he wrote at the risque of his life. 
It is dated, August 26, 1692. Mr. Hutchinson took 
it from the Massachusetts files, and published it to 
do honour to his memor}^ He also acquaints us 
that, in consequence of writing this letter, he was or- 
dered to be carried upon the field where two French- 
men were shot, who were concerned with him in 
giving the intelligence ; he expected the same fate, 
but was sent to France, where he remained in pris- 
on two years. *' A gentleman who had taken no- 
tice of the person who carried the victuals from day 
to day, had the curiosity to inquire what prisoner 
was there, and to speak to him at the grate, and to 
ask, if he could do him any service. Mr. Nelson 
desired only to have a letter sent to England, to in- 
form sir Purbcck Temple of his condition, whicli 
was done, and soon after, a demand was made of 
his release or exchange. He was then looked upon 
as a person of some importance. He was sent to 
the Bastile, and, just before the peace at Ryswick, 
was allowed to go to England, upon his parole, and 
security given by a French gentleman for his return. 
The peace being concluded, he intending to return, 
was forbad to do it by king William ; y£t, to pre- 
vent any trouble he went and surrendered himself. 
Being discharged, he was brought into trouble up- 
on his return to England, for going contrary to the 



334 NEW 

king's order, but at length returned to his family af- 
ter ten or eleven years absence." Hutchinson. 

Newman Francis, esq. was secretary of the 
colony of New Haven when the commissioners of 
the united colonies agreed to make war upon the 
Dutch, at Manhadoes, A. D. 1653. In their records 
we find, that agents were appointed, who were to ex- 
amine the whole aifair in a conference with gov. 
Stuyvesant, and require satisfaction. These agents 
were Francis Newman, one of the magistrates of 
New Haven, capt. John Lcverett, afterwards gover- 
nour of Massachusetts, and Mr. William Davis. 
The Dutch governour avoided the examination, 
and the agents returned without obtaining satisfac- 
tion. The commissioners of the united colonies 
immediately decided for war ; several of the colo- 
nies raised troops, but the general court of Massa- 
chusetts put a stop to their proceedings ; nothing 
could induce them to act offensively upon this oc- 
casion. *' In direct violation of the articles of the 
confederation, they resolved, that no determination 
of the commissioners, should they all agree, should 
bind the general court to act in an offensive war, 
which should appear to such general court to be un- 
just." This declaration caused great disturbance 
to the sister colonies; they expressed their grief and 
resentment, and it almost effected a dissolution of 
the union. Another evil was consequential upon 
this. The towns bordering upon the Dutch settle- 
ments determined they would carry on the war, and 
there were insurrections in divers places. Mr. 
Newman was elected by the magistrates of New 
Haven, with Mr. Goodyear, the deputy governour, 
to visit the towns, and compose their minds. 

Mr. Newman was the next year chosen commis- 
sioner of the united colonies. At the election at 
New Haven, 1658, he was chosen governour. Their 
excellent chief magistrate, Mr. Eaton, died the year 
before : Mr. Goodyear, the deputy governour, died 
also about the same time in London. Trumbull 



NEW 335 

says, " he was a worthy man of a very respectable 
family. " We find his name often among the com- 
missioners of the united colonies. 

Mr. Newman continued in the chief seat of gov- 
ernment until the year 1661. He died that year 
greatly lamented. He was secretary for many years, 
under the administration of gov. Eaton, and was well 
acquainted with the aftairs of tlie colony. He is re- 
presented, as " a gentleman of piety and unblemish- 
ed morals, happily imitating his predecessor both 
in publick and private life." Records of the united 
colojiies, Trumbull. 

Newman Samuel, author of the Cambridge 
concordance, was educated at the university of Ox- 
ford, and was an able and faithful minister of the 
gospel many years in his own country. In the year 
1638, he came to New England, and spent some 
time at Dorchester ; then removed to Weymouth, 
and resided there about 5 years. His next remove 
was to a place bordering on Providence plantations, 
■which he named Rehoboth, according to the quaint 
style of that day, but which retains its name to the 
present times. He lived nineteen years with his 
people, was a very lively preacher, a hard student, 
and a pastor well beloved by his flock. The man- 
ner of his death was peculiar. He had a certain 
premonition of it, and seemed to triumph in the 
prospect of its being near. He was apparently in 
perfect health, and preached a sermon upon these 
"words, Job xiv. 14, " all the days of my appointed 
time will I wait till my change come." In the af- 
ternoon of the following Lord's day, he asked the 
deacon to pray with him saying, he had not long to 
live. As soon as he had finished his prayer, he said 
the time was come that he must leave this world. 
But his friends seeing no immediate signs of disso- 
lution, thought it was the influence of imagination. 
But he turned round saying, angels do your oflice, 
immediately expired. This may appear like other 
marvellous circumstances related in the Magnalia, 



S3& NOR 

but it is handed down by persons not connected 
with that author, and was as much confirmed as any 
report depending upon tradition, and it is said that 
accounts of the death of Mr. Newman were written 
at the time, and sent to England, as well as propa- 
gated through the towns of New England. He di- 
ed, July 5, 1663, in the 63d year of his age. Mr. 
Norton of Boston and Mr. Stone of Hartford died 
the same year. 

His concordance of the bible, was superiour to any 
that ever had been published. It was a very elabo- 
rate work ; but the edition, which was called the 
Cambridge concordance, was much improved in 
England, where it received this title. 

Newton Thomas, attorney general of Massa- 
chusetts Bay, died in Boston, 1721, May 28. He 
was educated in England, was much beloved in his 
native country, and highly esteemed here for his 
virtue, integrity and honour, while he was comp- 
troller of the customs, which was his first appoint- 
ment ; and in his profession as counsellor of law. 
** He was affable, courteous, circumspect, devout, 
exemplary for family government, and all the duties 
of humanity." 

NoRRis Edward, teacher of the church in Sa- 
lem, was ordained, March 18, 1640. After Mr. 
Peters left the church he had the sole charge of it 
for 18 years, and, by his prudence and moderation, 
it grew and flourished : it was preserved in a state 
of general tranquillity while other towns were agi- 
tated by fanaticks, and the commonwealth swarm- 
ed with sectaries. He was more liberal in his ideas 
of toleration than most ministers in New Ei^land, 
and was never active in any of the proceedings 
against the Gortonists or Anabaptists. So little 
did he interfere in the affairs of other churches, that 
when the platform of church discipline was adopt- 
ed in 1648,* he persevered in a platform of his own 
church, and preserved not only the love of his peo- 

• Bentley. 



NOR S37 

pie, but the respect of his neighbours unto his death^ 
which happened, April 10, 1659.* 

In an account of eminent men by father Barnard, 
of Marblehead, Mr. Norris's name appears with the 
first class. He was celebrated as a political writer, 
as well as a great divine. In 1642, a book was writ- 
ten, by Mr. Saltonstall, one of the assistants, wherein 
*' the standing council was declared to be a sinf^il 
innovation." A reply to it was made, by Mr. Dud- 
ley. But we learn from gov. Winthrop, that anoth- 
er answer was given by " Mr. Norris, a grave and 
judicious elder, teacher of the church at Salem, 
who, not suspecting the author, handled him some- 
what sharply according to the merit of the matter," 

In 1653, Mr. Norris again appeared as a writer 
on the politicks of the day. The other colonies 
were disposed to declare war against the Dutch set- 
tlements. The commissioners of the united colo- 
nies, with the exception of Simon Bradstreet, had 
agreed upon this measure as absolutely necessary. 
The general court of Massachusetts would not con- 
sent to the decree of the commissioners, but Mr. 
Norris wrote in favour of them. He represented 
such a war as just and proper : " that the spending 
so much time in parlies and treaties, after all the in- 
juries they had received, and while the enemy was 
insulting them, would make them appear contemp- 
tible to the Indians ; that it was dishonouring God, 
in whom they professed to trust, and bringing a 
scandal upon themselves. He insisted that they 
ought not to leave their brethren at New Haven to 
bear all the evils which the enemies of New England 
were disposed, and ready to bring upon them : and 
that if they did not engage in this business, they de- 
served the curse which the angel of the lord utter- 

* Another thing has been mentioned concerning tlie Salem 
people, which imphes a peculiar setness in their own v.'ay. Wlieii 
all the churches in Massachusetts Bay used the New Knglaiul 
psalms, they continued to use Ainsworth. These were sung in 
this town till the year 1675, so afraid were they of the spirit of 
innovation, or else fond of singularity in their mode of worship, 
r II 



Mm 

338 NOR -^ 

cd against Mero%. This, he said, he presented in tlie 
name of many pcnbive hearts." 

Mr. Norris left a son, ^vho was preceptor of the 
f^^ranimar school in Salem from 1640 to 1684. He 
died this year, aged 70 years. 

Norton John, was iDorn May 6, 1606, at Star- 
ford in Hertfordshire. At 14 years of age he en- 
tered Peter house, Cambridge, lout was obliged to 
leave the university, after he had taken his first de- 
gree, on account of some domestick misfortunes, 
whereby his father's estate suffered. He obtained 
a curacy of the church in his native town, and was 
at the same time teacher of the school. His talents 
were such as would enable him to make a figure in 
any situation. He might have obtained preferment 
in the episcopal church, and he was solicited to ac- 
cept a fellowship in the university ; but his dislike 
of the ceremonies prevented him from accepting a 
considerable benefice. He also had an antipathy to 
Arminianism, which was the prevailing sentiment 
of the ministers of the church of England, In the 
year 1634, he was coming to America in the same 
ship with Mr. Thomas Shepherd, but a storm drove 
them back again, and he did not accomplish his 
purpose till the next year. It is said, in Winthrop's 
journal, that he arrived at Plymouth, October 10, 
1635, the vessel being driven into that harbour by 
contrary winds, but it appears from other accounts 
that Mr. Winslow, the agent for New Plymouth at 
the court of Great Britain, had made overtures to 
him to take the charge of that ancient church. He 
passed the winter with them, and they were so fond 
of his preaching, that they set aside Mr. Ralph 
Smith, their pastor, a man of less gifts, and pressed 
Mr. Norton's continuance ; yet he left them, and 
came to Massachusetts. He was immediately in- 
vited to settle with the church at Ipswich, where 
he continued till the death of Mr. Cotton. The old 
church in Boston, had a very high opinion of his ac- 
complishments. When the synod met at Cam- 



NOR 339 

bridge, 1647, the Boston chtirch would send no 
messengers till they heard Mr. N. preach a lecture 
upon the nature of councils, the power of the civil 
magistrate to call such councils, and the dut)- of the 
churches in regarding their advice ; they then chose 
3 delegates to accompany their ciders, who had tak- 
en their seats at the synod. Upon the death of Mr. 
Cotton their eyes were turned to him, therefore, as 
the most pro\)er person to supply the place of that 
great man. Our ecclesiastical annals, compiled by 
Cotton Mather, relate the difficulties in obtaining 
him, and mention also Mr. Cotton's dream, that " he 
saw Mr. Norton coming into Boston upon a white 
horse, which actually took place afterwards ;" but 
it may suffice for this account to say, that Mr. Nor- 
ton left Ipswich by the advice of council, and that 
having accepted the invitation of the Boston people, 
it pleased the great head of the church to add lustre 
to his character, and give success to his ministry. 
Had he confined himself to his spiritual concerns, 
his sun would have set without a cloud ; but he 
meddled with the affiiirs ofgovernment, and mingled 
the character of the politician with the divine, 
which gave a sudden blaze to his reputation, but 
thick darkness succeeded. Cotton Mather says, "that 
New England, being a country whose interests were 
remarkably enwrapped in ecclesiastical circumstan- 
ces, ministers ought to concern themselves in poli- 
ticks ;" and he was a lively example of his own ad- 
vice. He says, likewise, that had Mr. Norton done 
nothing more than to prevent hostilities between the 
English people and the Dutch, at Manhadoes, it had 
been worth his coming into the station he held in 
Boston. Norris of Salem, as good a man, was of a 
diflerent opinion ; and Dr. Trumbull, a modern his- 
torian of excellent parts and character, has repre- 
sented the conduct of Massachusetts in not assist- 
ing the other colonies at the time, as most base and 
tre^acherous. Mr. Norton rendered himself so pop- 
ular by his interference in this business, that the 



340 NOR 

general coiirt afterwards chose him joint agent with 
Simon Bradstreet to present the address to his ma- 
jesty, Charles II. It was a most delicate and diffi- 
cult business to transact. It required so much art 
and dissimulation 5 that a minister of the gospel ought 
not to have been concerned in it* Cromwell was 
the friend of New England. Our clergy had justi- 
fied every circumstance of the usurpation, and pub- 
lickly announced the piety, as well as justice of the 
court, which had brought their monarch to the scaf- 
fold. Men who had grown grey in practising po- 
litical devises would have been puzzled to make an 
address to his son and successor, and conceal their 
own hypocrisy. The conduct of our agents, the 
unkind treatment they received from those in whom 
they trusted, especially the resentment of the fierce 
republican spirit of this new world, which may be 
compared to Hercules in his cradle, have been re- 
lated in tlie histories of Massachusetts. Mr. Hutch- 
inson gives the most particular account. They all 
agree that Mr. Norton's death was the consequence. 
This, however, is always said of a man, who dies 
suddenly, after meeting with trouble. But often the 
cause is taken for the effect. A man has bodily 
complaints from the melancholy disposition of his 
mind, but it more frequently is the case, that a man 
becomes melancholy and wretched from diseases of 
the body. Mr. N. was of a sickly constitution, and 
died of an apoplexy. It was imputed to chagrin 
and grief on account of the treatment he received* 
The other agent lived to be 95 years old. He was 
more unpopular, for the blame was imputed mostly 
to him. He was, however, always conversant with 
state affairs, and could calculate upon the fickleness 
of the people, and the vexation of office. We have 
only then to learn this lesson, that every man should 
mind his own business. He died, April 5, 1663. 
He was preparing the afternoon exercises when he 
was taken out of the world. Many, who had enjoy- 
^d the benefit of his labours, bewailed his departure. 



I 



NOR 341 

Their honest hearts were wounded, and they moist- 
ened his grave with their tears. 

Mr. Norton was distinguished as a writer as much 
as he excelled in preaching. When a youth he was 
one of the finest scholars at the university. While 
he cultivated his master's vineyard, he studied eve- 
ry branch of divinity. In his retired situation, 
when he was teacher of the church of Ipswich, he 
was unanimously chosen to answer the questions 
concerning church government, which ApoUonius, 
by request of the divines of Zealand, had sent over 
to the divines of New England. This was written 
in pure elegant latin, A. 1). 1645. To judge of 
its merit we may quote the words of Mr. Fuller in 
his church history ; "of all the authors I have pe- 
rused concerning those opinions, none to me was 
more informative than John Norton, one of no less 
learning than modesty, in his answer to ApoUonius, 
pastor of the church in Middleburgh." Mr. NOr- 
ton also advised, modelled, and recommended the 
Cambridge platform, J 647. 

Another book he wrote by desire of the general 
court in answer to one entitled, " the meritorious 
price of man's redemption." He was likewise the 
author of a famous work, " the orthodox evangel- 
ist," highly recommended by Mr. Cotton. 

After he came to Boston he wrote the life of his 
predecessor Mr. Cotton, which was reprinted in 
England. He also wrote, at the desire of the gene- 
ral court, " a tract, on the doctrines of the Qua- 
kers." 

He preached the election sermon in 1661, Jcr. 
XXX. 17, this was published after his death, with 
two other sermons, one on John xiv. 3, the last ser- 
mon he ever preached. The other was a sermon he 
preached at Thursday lecture. 

To these sermons was annexed, a translation of 
the famous letter he wrote in latin to Mr. Dury,* 

* John Dury makes some figure in the early annals of Massa- 
chuseus on account of the famous letter, wrillen to the divines of 



342 NOW 

who began about the year 1635 to labour in a work 
which none were ever able to accomplish, viz. the 
pacification of all the reformed churches. Mr. Nor- 
ton's letter was signed by more than 40 ministers 
of New England. 

NovvEL Increase was appointed a magistrate of 
the province of Massachusstts Bay, in the year 
1629 ; and came over with gov. Winthrop in the 
Arabella. 

He was nephew to Alexander Nowel, dean of St. 

New England. This makes part of a large plan he had in view 
of reconciling the different sects of protestants. The same thing 
had been attempted by the early reformers of Germany. But 
those who adhered to the Ausburgh confession and the Calvinists 
could never agree. When men of liberal minds endeavoured to 
form a union, the spirit of bigotry operated upon some, v/ho 
would throw firebrands in the way ; and the fire being kindled 
they separated \n anger, and wrote with zeal. Sometimes the 
princes of Europe discovered their schemes of policy ; and the vir- 
tue of priests yielded to the pride of opinion. It is said, that Du- 
ry shewed more activity and perseverance in the work of charity, 
than any man of that, or the preceding age. Amidst many vexa- 
tions, and opposition that required the most intrepid and invinci- 
ble patience, he wrote, exhorted, prayed and disputed. He em- 
ployed all the means which human wisdom could suggest to pat 
an end to the dissentions and animosities, which were excited 
among christians of different denominations: He travelled in all 
the countries of Ir uropc, and endeavoured to accommodate him- 
self to the prejudices of the several parties. He addressed mag- 
istrates and ministers, sovereigns and princes; painted in livelj'' 
colours the advantages, the utility, and importance of the scheme 
he had formed, hopmg to interest the wise and good in his cause ; 
but his hopes and expectations were all frustrated. 

Though many commended his design, and admired his can- 
dour, he found few disposed to assist him. And he was often de- 
ceived by those, who soothed him with their smiles, without any 
view of aiding him by their credit and their counsels* 

He had enemies, who ascribed wrong motives to his zeal, and 
the Lutherans returned invectives often to his kind advice. He 
was at last beat from his labours and oppressed with injurious 
treatment, and was obliged to acknovvlcdge, that he had undertak- 
^j^ en what was impracticable. He ended his days in repose and re- 
tirement at Cassel, 

He was a native of Scotland, 

The letter of the ministers of New England was penned by Mr. 
Norton. It contains high commendations, without any pledge or 
promises of their aid in the coalition , 



n^Mt JoLfiMM^ilSr 



NOW 343 

Paur's, in queen Elizabeth's reign, or else the dean 
was his great uncle. This we learn from Mr. 
Hutchinson, who says, that he was a worthy, pious 
|, man. When our lathers planted their church in 
(|^' Charlcstown, they chose him ruling elder. He 
^B'' acted in this capacity, until a diiFerence of opinion 
arose among the people, and a question was agitat- 
ed, " whether an officer of the church could act as a 
civil magistrate?" It was decided that the offices 
were inconsistent. He resigned the eldership, 
therefore, and was a very active and useful person 
in the civil aft'airs of the province. For many years 
he was employed in publick life, and succeeded 
Mr. Bradstreet, as secretary of the colony. For 
many years he was assistant. His name with Endi- 
cott, Dudley, and other magistrates, appears in an 
association, 1649, aofainst wearing the hair long, as 
a thing which tended to corrupt good manners. 
He also joined, with several other counsellors, in 
calling a special meeting of the commissioners of 
the united colonies, April, 1653, when the country 
was so much alarmed by the machinations of the 
Dutch with the Indians. He was one of the mag- 
istrates who put the question to Ninnegret,Pessicus 
and Mixam, sachems of the Narragansetts. The 
result of this meeting has been considered in anoth- 
er place.* 

fs'ov/EL Samuel, supposed to be the son of se- 
cretary Nowel, was employed in several publick of- 
fices. He was one of the assistants in 1681 ; of 
the high republican party, who adhered to the old 

• The names of our magistrates for the year 1629 were, John 
Winthrop, governour, Thomas Dudley, deputy governour, Mat- 
thew Cradock, Thomas Goff, sir Richard Sallonstall, Isaac John- 
son, Samuel Aldersley, John Venn, John Humphrey, Simon 
Whercomb, Increase Nowel, Richard Percy, Nathaniel Wright, 
Samuel Vassal, Theophilus Eaton, Tliomas Adams, Thomas 
Hutchins, George Foxcroft, William Pinchon, John Pocock, 
Christopher Corolson, William Coddington, Simon Uradstreel, 
Thomas Sharp ; 1730, were added, Roger Ludlow, Edward Ros« ' 
siter, John Endicot ; 1632, John Winthrop, juu. 



344 N O Y 

charter ; and one of the magistrates against whom 
Randolph exhibited to the lords of the council arti- 
cles of high misdemeanour.* When Mr. agent 
Mather was in England, two of the assistants join- 
ed with him in an address to the king, Samuel Now- 
el and Elisha Hutchinson, but they did not succeed 
in their object. The name of Mr. Nowel is not 
among the counsellors under the new charter of Wil- 
liam and Mary. 

No YES James, teacher of the first church in 
Ncvv'bury, was born, 1608, at a town in Wiltshire. 
He came to New England, in 1634. He had an in-, 
vkation to settle at Watertown, but preferred to set- 
tle with his friend, Mr. Parker, at Newbury. These 
men taught in one school at Newbury in England, 
They came to America in the same ship, were pas-p 
tor and teacher of the same church, and lived to- 
gether in one house till death divided them. They 
agreed together about the doctrine and discipline of 
the churches more than with the inhabitants of the 
country in general. In a memoir of Mr. Noyes, 
written by his nephew, one of the ministers of Sa- 
lem, it is said that, at the desire of Mr. Wilson and 
others, he preached upon a particular occasion 
against the Antimonian principles then prevailing, 
which he did with good success, and to the satisfac- 
tion of those, who invited him. Mr. Wilson dearly 
loved him. There must indeed have been some- 
thing very sweet and amiable in the disposition of 
the man, for he v/as much loved and honoured in 
Newbury ; he had his friends in every part of Mas- 
sachusetts, and met with no disturbance from the 
bigotry of the people in any part of the government, 
though he spoke and wrote against the prevailing 
sentiments of the magistrates and ministers. He 
was no more a republican in politicks than in church 

* This fection of the {general court, as he calls them, were 
Danforth, Gookin, Saitonstall, Nowe 1, Richdrds, Davy, Gedney 
and Appleton, magistrates ; and Fisher, Cooke, Brattle, Stod- 
dard, Balhuist, Wait, Hathorne, Johnson, Hutchinson, Spraguej 
Oakes, Holbroke, Cu5;hin§;, Hammond and Pike, deputies. 



OAK 345 

discipline. He bitterly lamented the death of 
Charles I. Both Mr. Parker and he had high expec- 
tations of good times if Charles II. should ascend 
the throne. He did not live to have his expecta- 
tions frustrated ; but his colleague lived to sec 
that his restoration brought unhappy times to New 
England. He might say, perhaps, the evil arose 
not from the kingly government, but having such a 
king as Charles to reign over them. In chuich go- 
vernment Mr. Noyes had peculiar sentiments, that 
were neither presbyterian or congregational ; the 
*' brethren could act in certain matters, and join in 
church censures, but the pastor might take the 
power from their hands." He no way approved of 
a governing vote in the fraternity, being afraid 
equally of schism, and of ceremonies. He was in, 
opinion for episcopus, prseses ; but not episcopus 
princeps. He died in the 48th year of his ministry, 
October 22, 1656.* 

Oakes Urian was the son of a plain man *' who 
dwelt in tents," to use the language of Dr. Mather, 
but " deserving of everlasting remembrance." He 
tells us likewise that, when Mr. O. was a child, he was 
in danger of being drowned, and "that his life was sav- 
ed by a kind of miracle, that he might be the Moses 
of his people." He came to New England with his 
parents about the year 1634, and was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1649. He excelled as a scholar ; 
but his mind was bent especially to theological stu- 
dies. His first sermon he preached at Uoxbury, 
and soon after returned to his native country. He 
was settled at Titchfield, till the Bartholomew act 
in 1662, which deprived so many worthy men of 

* His works are, " a catechism for children,'* which continued in 
use many years. " The temple measured ;" this is the book al- 
luded to by Mr. Baxter when he said he was a lover of the New 
England churches according to the New England model, as Mr. 
Noyes had explained it. A copy of this rare book is in the libra- 
ry of the historical society. He also wrote a work entitled, 
" Moses and Aaron,*' which was afterwards printed in England. 
and dedicated to Charles II. 

w w 



346 O A K 

their livings. Mr. Oakes at this time was noticed 
by a Erentleman in whose family he had once been 
chaplain, and received competent provision for his 
maintenance; but having received an invitation from 
the church at Cambridge, he left the old country in 
1671, and succeeded Mr. Mitchel in his pastoral 
church. To come after such a man, who was a star 
of the first magnitude in this American hemisphere, 
it was necessary to give diligence to his studies, and 
all the duties ot his office.* If the powers of his 
mind were not equal to his predecessor's, they were 
superiour to most other men. He w^as an excel- 
lent preacher, and was esteemed as highly for his 
knowledge as for his pulpit talents. He was the 
man to whom the government of the college turned 
their attention to fill the chair, when president Hoar 
resigned his office. He would not accept it without 
he could combine his pastoral duties with the du- 
ties of his station in the college. He was allowed 
to hold both offices, and was able to give universal 
satisfaction. His days, however, were short, ex- 
cept they be measured with his usefulness. He di- 
ed suddenly, July 25, 1681, in the 50th year of his 
age, and 10th of his ministry. 

• Mr. Mitchel, pastor of the church at Cambridge,was liighly 
celebrated for his learninp;, but more for the native vigour of his 
jnind. Dr. Mather calls him, the " matchless Mitchel." He died 
young, hence the greater eclat to his reputation. He ought to 
have been the subject of a particular article in this biographical 
work, but the notices which were prepared were mislaid. There 
is tlie less need to make an apology, as the publick have been 
{^ratified bv a verv excellent memoir from Dr. Holmes, in his 
history of Canvbndge. (Historical collections, vol. vii.) — Mr. M. 
died in !668, in the 43d year of his age. His writings were few^. 
He printed tlie election sermon, 1667 ; a discourse upon " the 
glory of believers," first printed at London. Several editions of 
it have been printed in America. Mr Mitchel also wrote in de- 
fence of the Synod, 1662, in opposition to Increase IMaihtr, who 
surrendered himself " a captive to his victorious arguments," 
says Dr, Cotton Mather. The same author tells us what the 
great Mr. Baxter said : " That if there could be convened an 
oecumenical council of the whole christian world, Mr. Mitchel 
would be worthy to be the moderajlor of it." 



O L I 347 

His publications are, a set of astronomical calcu- 
lations with this motto, ' 

" Paivum parva drceiU, sed ine=t sua gratia parvis." 

an elegy on Mr. Shephard of Charlestovvn ; the 
artillery election sermon, 1672 ; the election ser- 
mon, 1G73. These were all printed by Mr. Sam- 
uel Green, Cambridge. 

Oliver Daniel was the son of capt. Peter Oli- 
ver, a gentleman of property and reputation, and 
one of the principal founders of the old south church 
in Boston, in May, 1669. Capt. Oliver had 3 sons ; 
Nathaniel, a merchant, and James, a celebrated phy- 
sician, at Cambridge, who died young, and Daniel, 
the subject of the present article. This gentleman 
was one of the first merchants of the place ; and 
was employed in many publick oifices, all of which 
he discharged with fidelity, and to universal accept- 
ance. He was one of the selectmen, overseer of the 
poor, a justice of the peace, representative, and one 
of his majesty's council. He died suddenly in the 
month of July, 1732, in the 69th year of his age. 
*' In his will, among other legacies, he bestowed a 
large house, called the spinning school, for which 
use he first designed it, and which cost him 600 
pounds, for the benefit of poor children, that may 
learn to read the scriptures."* 

Mr. Oliver married the second daughter of the 

* Mr. Prince preached upon the defeth of Mr. Daniel Oliver, 
senior, Mr. Oliver, jun. and Mrs. Klizabeth Oliver, sister of gov. 
Belcher, who was then in the chair. She died in 1735. These 
sermons were printed, and are three very excellent discourses. 

Mr. Mather Byles also published a poem after the death of 
Mr. O. in 1732. It was inscribed to gov. Belclier, the brother in 
law, at whose desire it was written. Mr. Byles the minister of the 
church in Mollis street, Boston, printed a little volume of poems. 
He corresponded with Pope, who sent him a copy of his works. 
He also printed a number of sermons, and received a diploma of 
D. I), from .Mierdcen. lie was a florid preacher, with a very fine 
voice. Notices of him were prepared for this work, but with 
many other lives were suppressed, lest the volume should be of 
too large a size. Whoever wishes to see a particular account ot 
him is referred to a memoir handsomely written in the 4th volume 
of the PolyanUius, a periodical paper, lately printed in Bostott. 



348 O L I 

honourable Andrew Belcher, esq. by whom he had 
several children, all of whom were graduated at 
Harvard College, and made a considerable figure in 
the world. 

Oliver Daniel, the eldest son of the honour- 
able Daniel Oliver, commenced bachelor of arts in 
1722, and proceeded master in 1725. He applied 
himself to merchandize, for which he had an ex- 
cellent genius and ability. He went to London in 
1726, travelled over a great part of Europe, was 
preparing to come home, but was taken sick of the 
small pox, at London, and died July 5th, 1727, in 
the 24th year of his age. He was buried under the 
church, in Fenchurch street. 

" His short life," says Mr. Prince, " was a worthy 
example of a wise and virtuous conduct, to the youth 
of his native country, both at home and abroad ; 
ai;d his premature death an affecting instance of the 
Uncertainty of their earthly prospects and expecta- 
tions." 

Oliver Andrew, lieut. governour of Massachu- 
setts, che second son of the hon. Daniel Oliver, was 
graduated 1724, and was distinguished more for his 
solid learning, and sobriety of conduct, than bril- 
liant parts. He was highly respectable in his cha- 
racter for his piety, integrity and knowledge of the 
affairs of the province, until the latter years of his 
civil and political life, when he was held up to pub- 
lic view, as one destitute of patriotick virtues, and 
inimical to the true interests of his country. The 
early part of his life was devoted to business, for 
vi'hich he was not so well qualified as many, who 
make no figure upon the publick theatre. He ra- 
ther diminished than increased his patrimony by any 
successful speculations. He was very soon em- 
ployed in publick stations ; was representative 
for Boston at the general court, and one of 

The preseht. generation recollect Dr. Byles more as a man given 
to punning, liian any other kind of wit. His works, some of 
which are valuable, are seldom met with. 



O L I 349 

liis majesty's council. Upon the death of the 
Venerable secretary Willard, he was appointed 
secretary of the province, and held the office till 
1771 ; then he succeeded Mr. Hutchinson in the 
place of lieut. governour. When the stamp act 
passed the British parliament, he was made distrib- 
uter, which would have been a lucrative office, and 
which he reluctantly resigned, being compelled to 
do it by the loud voice of the multitude. The ri- 
ots this act occasioned have been frequently al- 
luded to. Mr. Oliver's house was among those 
which were injured, for which the general court 
made him sufficient compensation. 

His political principles, and propensity to ac- 
quire wealth and power, stimulated him to act a sim- 
ilar part in publick lite with Mr. Hutchinson, to 
whom he was nearly related. It was supposed that 
he was influenced by that gentleman ; but his own 
viev/s led to the same object, and his own letters 
betrayed the spirit by which he had been actuated 
for some years. In the same petition, therefore, 
which the general court presented to his majesty 
for the removal of gov. H. they begged that Mr. 
Oliver might also be removed from the place of 
lieut. governour. He was then in very ill health, 
and soon after descended to the grave with all his 
imperfections upon his head. He died, March 3d, 
1774, during the session of the general court, v/ho 
voted to attend his funeral, but all left the proces- 
sion, on account of some improper m^magenient, 
which implied a want of respect to tlic legislature of 
the province. 

Had the politicks of the lieut. governour becu 
dift'erent, his character would have been very re- 
spectable. The family had been greatly beloved, 
and his abilities were connected widi indefatigable 
industry. He was a friend to the college, and to the 
interests of religion. He wrote well upon theolog- 
ical and political subjects. Some of them were 
adapted to the times, and are scattered, with other 



550 O L I 

ephemeral productions ; but some remain, and disr 
cover a cultivated mind, and considerable acquain- 
tance with the subject. 

Mr. O. left a number of sons, to whom he gave a 
liberal education. The eldest, 

Oliver Andrew, esq. of Salem, was graduat- 
ed at Cambridge, 1749, was judge of the court of 
common pleas for the county of Essex before the 
revolution ; one of the original members of the 
American academy of arts and sciences ; also a 
member of the philosophical society of Philadel- 
phia. He possessed fine talents, and was reckoned 
nmong our best scholars. He never was fond of 
publick life, but loved his friend and his books, and 
was much beloved by all that knew him. Several 
valuable communications of his are in the first vol- 
ume of the transactions of the American academy. 
He was also the author of a work much celebrated 
entitled, an " essay on comets," printed in the year 
1772. He died in 1799, aged 68. 

Oliver Peter, chief justice of Massachusetts, 
the younger son of the hon. Daniel Oliver, was grad- 
uated at Harvard College, 1730. He lived on a 
family estate in the town of Middleborough, and 
for many years was highly respected for his talents, 
bis virtues, and his knowledge of the affairs of the 
commonwealth. He had the true spirit of an old 
colony man. Every relick, or document, which 
related to the settlement of the country, or was cu- 
rious, had a value stamped upon it. He collected 
many papers and records, and even transcribed all 
William Hubbard's ms. history with his own hand. 
All these, except such as Hutchinson made use off, 
were carried away with him when he went to Eng- 
land. He filled several offices in the county of 
Plymouth, which he executed with ability and 
faithfulness, and when he was raised to the supreme 
bench, it was a very popular appointment, though 
he had not that knowledge of the law, which others 
had, who v/ere of the profession, and looked up to 



OLl .351 

the place. He expected to have succeeded Mr. 
Hutchinson, as chief justice. But he did not obtain 
the station at that time. Judge Lynde was appoint- 
ed, who resigned as soon as an alteration was made 
in the method of the judges receiving their salaries. 
Mr. Oliver was then made chief justice, with a sal- 
ary of 400/. sterling, which was to be fixed, and paid 
without any dependence upon the legislature of the 
province. This rendered him completely odious. 
And for this he was impeached by the house of 
representatives. His prejudices were strong against 
the country during the war. He went away with 
the other loyalists, when the British troops abandon. 
ed the town, and lived in England some years up- 
on his salary, or the pension he received from the 
crown. A diploma of L L. D. from the university 
of Oxford, was presented to him. In his own coun- 
try, he was not distinguished with this literary hon- 
our. He was, however, a handsome writer in poe- 
try and prose. Several specimens of his talents are 
preserved. He wrote many political pieces in the 
publick papers, especially in the Censor^ a paper 
vi^hich the tories patronized, and which was devoted 
altogether to the party. Several of the best politi- 
cal speculations in that paper were written by judge 
Oliver, and his brother the lieut, governour. 

Oliver Thomas, was the last lieut. governour, 
under the crown. He was of a different family from 
the gentlemen above mentioned. He was in no 
publick office till the charter of Massachusetts was 
changed, and his name was then at the head of the 
mandamus council, with a commission, as lieut. 
governour of the province. It was a matter of so 
much surprise, that it was the current conversation, 
that the name of Thomas Oliver had been accident- 
ally inserted for Peter, the chief justice. But it 
appeared afterwards, this very gentleman was ap- 
pointed, by the particular advice of Mr. Hutchin- 
son. With what views time perhaps will not discover. 
On other occasions he ha^ preferred his own rela* 



352 O S B 

tions. Politicians always have some design, and 
never act from disinterested motives. Doubtless 
the debt of gratitude was to be paid. Mr. Oliver 
would have rejoiced to exchange his pubiick hon- 
ours for his private station. He was a man of let- 
ters and possessed much good nature and good 
breeding; was affable, courteous, a complete gentle- 
man in his manners, and the delight of his acquaint- 
ance. He was graduated at Harvard College, 1753, 
He built an elegant mansion house in Cambridge, 
and enjoyed a plentiful fortune. When he left 
America, it was with extreme regret. He lived in 
the shades of retirement while he was in Europe, 
and very lately his death was announced in the 
pubiick papers. 

OsBORN John, physician, was born, 1713, in 
Sandwich, Barnstable county, and was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1735. 

The first entrance of a young student on the 
world, whose future prospects depend upon his pro- 
fession, and that profession on his own choice, is 
frequently marked by indecision and inactivity. 
This was the case with Osborn. After leaving col- 
lege, he repaired to his father's house at Eastham, 
and spent some time in a state of irresolution. To 
while away this awkward interval, and to gratify the 
wishes of his father, he paid some attention to divin- 
ity. At an association of the neighbouring clergy 
in Chatham, he delivered a sermon of his own com- 
position. The ingenuity of this discourse, though 
not perfectly orthodox, commanded the approbation 
of his reverend hearers. 

After this exhibition we hear no more of him in 
the desk ; but being duly qualified, he afterwards 
became a physician, and removed to Middletown, 
Connecticut. He married about this time ; and in 
1753 wrote to a sister, then living at Plymouth, the 
following account of himself and family. 

*' We are all in usual plight, except myself. I 
am confined chiefly to the house ; am weak, lamC; 



O T I 353 

and uneasy ; and never expect to be hearty and 
strong again. 1 have lingered along almost two 
years a life not worth having, and how much long- 
er it will last, I cannot tell. We have six children ; 
the eldest fourteen years old last November ; the 
youngest two years last January ; the eldest a daugh- 
ter, the next a son, and so on to the end of the 
chapter." 

The illness he mentions was the effect of a fever 
from which he never recovered. The life, which he 
thought not worth having, lasted but a short time 
after he wrote the above mentioned letter, He died 
at the age of 40. 

He certainly possessed a fine poetick genius, which 
appears from his whaling song, which has been 
highly celebrated, and which no whaleman ever 
sings or speaks of but with rapture. He also wrote 
a very beautiful elegiack epistle addressed to one 
sister on the death of another.* 

Otis John, one of the council for Massachusetts, 
was born at Hingham, A. D. 1657. His parents 
were very respectable among the early settlers of 
that town. He removed to the town of Barnstable 
when he was a young man, and was an ornament to 
that part of the country. He very soon trod the 
path to honour, and was employed in a variety of 
trusts, which he discharged with fidelity and skill. 
For 20 years he was representative of Barnstable to 
the general court. In 1706 he was chosen one of his 
majesty's council, and sat at that honourable board 
21 years, till death gave him a discharge from every 
labour, and laid his earthly honours in the dust. 

Above 18 years he was at the head of the militia 
in the county of Barnstable ; chief judge of the court 
of common pleas 13 years ; and judge of the pro- 
bate of wills. Such was his sagacity and prudence, 
that he often composed differences both in church 

* These poems were printed in tlie Boslon Mirror, January, ol 
the present year. 'I'he biopjraphical sketcli, written by a literary 
friend) appears in this Dictionary with ius ronscn' 
X X 



354 U T I 

and state. He had fine talents Ibr conversatioif. 
His pleasantness and i:ffability made him agreeable ? 
his wit and humour often enlivened the company, 
which was improved by his wisdom. A gentleman 
who converses with people of various classes ought 
to make the best use of rustick simplicity ; he must 
bear with the ignorance of some, and check the 
pride and ill manners of others ; for such as speak 
their minds with vulgar freedom, often affect to be 
something beyond their neighbours. Col. Otis had 
this requisite knowledge of mankind, and preserved 
his popularity at the same time " he was known in 
the gates" for his uprightness. He was strict and 
exemplary in attending upon religious duties, and 
was as remarkable for his humility and modest 
worth among christians, as for his intellectual pow- 
ers and active services among his fellow men. He 
died, Nov. 30th, 1727, aged 70, the age of man, 
but very old, if he lives " the longest, who lives the 
most usefully." 

Otis John, son of the gentleman before men- 
tioned, was representative for the town of Barnsta- 
ble a number of years. He was chosen a counsel- 
lor in the year 1747, and every year successively 
till 1756, the year of his death. 

Otis James, was also an honourable man in his 
generation. He had a superiour genius, and great 
accomplishments, acquired by the strength and ap- 
plication of his natural powers. Having turned his 
attention to the study of law, he became the most 
eminent pleader in the county of Barnstable. His 
reputation was so high in his profession, that he was 
a candidate for the office of judge in the superiour 
court. When judge Sewall died, in 1770, it was 
supposed one of the judges would take his place as 
chief justice, and Mr. Otis be advanced to the 
bench. Mr. Hutchinson, however, obtained the 
place of chief justice. This caused great surprise, 
frustrated expectations, and provoked resentment. 
It kindled party spirit and spread the flames over 



O T I 355 

the province. Many persons became inimical to 
the lieut. governour, who perhaps would have stood 
his friends in those troublesome times when his pa- 
triotism w^as tired. Mr. O. had great influence in 
the general court, and had lattly been chosen one 
his majesty's council ; he was also colonel of the mi- 
litia, which in those days was not only held in great 
honour, but gave a man as much influence as re- 
spect. There was, however, something like a coali- 
tion of parties, in 1763. Col. Otis was appointed 
justice of the court of common pleas, and judge of 
probate for the county of Barnstabk. The contro- 
versy with the parent country soon succeeded the 
peace, which had been established among the na- 
tions of Europe, In 1764, the British parliament 
passed an act for raising a revenue in the colonies. 
This roused the spirit of New England, and all the 
brilliant abilities of the Otis family were exerted on 
the side of opposition. The younger Mr. O. was 
in the house of representatives. He blazed in the 
cause of liberty, like the genius of the times, and 
powerfully counteracted the schemes of the ministry. 
In 1766, gov. Bernard negatived several counsel- 
lors, because the lieut, governour, secretary, and at- 
torney general were not chosen, 'vvho had been hon- 
oured with a seat at that board during sundry years. 
Mr. Otis was one of five leading whig characters, 
who had this mark of royal displeasure. The town 
of Barnstable again chose him representative. He 
was elected into the counsel every succeeding year, 
and was negatived while Bernard continued in the 
administration of government. When he left the 
province, Mr. Hutchinson aj^probated the choice, 
and he was at the board during the first years of the 
revolutionary war. He died in the month of ;-o- 
vember, 1778, having lived long enough to see his 
country glorious in her struggles for freedom, with 
a prospect full in view, that her mighty eftbrts to se- 
cure independence, would be crowned with suc- 
cess. 



356 O T I 

Otis James, of Boston, son of col. Otis of Barn* 
stable, was born in that town, and received every 
advantage of education it was in his father's power 
to bestou. The old gentleman was a friend to 
learning, and learned men, and often lamented his 
want of academical improvement. The son enter- 
ed Harvard College, in 1739, and received his de- 
grees at the usual time. After he left college, his 
object was the study of law ; but previously to 
entering his name in any office, he spent several 
years in furnishing his mind with various kinds of 
knowledge, and cultivating a classical taste. He 
then studied law with Mr. Gridley, and soon appear- 
ed with distinguished lustre in his profession. No 
one at the bar was supposed to possess more exten- 
sive information. He first began the practice of the 
law at Plymouth ; but he soon came to Boston, 
where he had a better opportunity to display his 
talents, and increase his business. He was con- 
stantly employed ; and obtained such celebrity, that 
application was made to him in the most important 
causes from other counties in Massachusetts, from 
neighbouring colonies, and even from Nova Sco- 
tia.* There are persons now living, who can recol- 
lect how successfully he managed certain law cases 
of magnitude and importance. He was appointed 
advocate general at the court of admiralty, which 
place he resigned in the year 1761, and openly pro- 
tested against the officers of the customs, and expos- 
ed the treacherous conduct of Charles Paxton, who 
from this time became his personal enemy, though 
it was not in the power of such a man to do him 
great injury. 

Mr. Otis was now the idol of the people of Bos- 
ton. At the election of May, 1761, he was sent to 
the general court as one of tlieir four representa- 
tives. He was considered by the inhabitants of the 
town, as the best orator who spake in Faneuil hall, 
and, upon one occasion, when he was moderator, he 

• Anthology, Sth vol. page 224, 



O T I 357 

addressed them in a long speech, which was after- 
wards published. The whigs praised it higl^ly, but 
on the other side were found persons, who made the 
most sarcastick remarks. The observation of a great 
statesman, whose opinion, and knowledge of facts, 
claim every kind of respect, was just, who said of 
Mr. Otis, that " he was a senator, whose parts, lit- 
erature, eloquence and integrity, were equal to any 
in the times when he lived ; yet no man was ever 
more abused by the tory writers, who ceased not to 
throw their vile aspersions on his character as well as 
on his writings "* They viewed him as the leading 
character among the whigs in the general court ; for 
he delivered his sentiments with the same manly 
freedom, and commanding eloquence, in the house 
of representatives which had given him such eclat 
in other assemblies. His hatred to Bernard and 
Hutchinson, combined with his zeal for his coun- 
try's cause, gave ardour to his spirits, a glow to his 
imagination, and energy to his expressions. His 
•wit was often keen ; his sarcasms always severe. 

The house of representatives manifested their 
high respect far his character by choosing him their 
speaker in the year 1766 : but he was negatived by 
the authority of the governour. About this time 
his fame reached the old country. Several of his 
political essays on the " rights of the colonies ;" 
and *' vindication of the measures of the general 
court," were reprinted in England. These were 
circulated among the members of the opposition 
in the British parliament. With some of their 
leading men he corresponded.! It was current- 
ly reported that a motion was made in parlia- 

* Xovanglus — the Boston Gazette, Feb. 1775. 
t Extracts from a letter ol" James Otis, esq. of Boston, to a T)o- 
ble lord, dated July 18, 1769. " I embrace the opportunity with 
all humility and g'latitude to acknowledge the lionour 1 have re- 
ceived in a letter from your lordsliip. At a time when so heavy 
a cloud seeiTis to be impending over North America, it gives sin- 
gular pleasure to find a nobleman of your lordship's raiik,genius, 
iind learning, so clearly avowing the cause of liberty and injured 



358 O T I 

ment *' to send for him, and try him for high trea- 
son." Such a motion does not appear in their de- 
bates. It is not likely it ever was made, Letters 
came from London, which suggested that such a 
motion was either made or to be made ; and people 
on /this side the water have generally supposed, that 
this was actually proposed by lord North. It is 
true, however, that a handsome compliment was 
paid Mr. Otis by Mr. Edmund Burke, the British 
Cicero, in one of their debates on American afiairs. 
After the repeal of the stamp act, the famous 
*' act laying a duty upon tea, painter's oil and col- 
ours," &c. passed the British parliament. It was 
introduced by Charles Townsend who, in 1766, was 
appointed chancellor of the exchequer. His pur- 
pose was, " to raise a revenue in America ;" and, 
*' to make the governours, judges and attorney gen- 
erals free and independent of the humours and ca- 
prices of the people." This act, with its direful 
consequences, put our politicians in a phrenz)'. 
The agitation of the publick mind was increased by 
the arbitrary and ridiculous conduct of the com- 
missioners. Beside their parade of high life and 

innocence. Your lordship's sentiments are a full proof, that the 
love of virtue and trulli are the best and securest basis of nobility. 

The cause of America is, in my humble opinion, the cause of 
the whole British empire. An empire which, from my earliest 
youth, I liave been taught to love and revere, as founded in the 
principles of natural reason and justice ; and upon the whole the 
best calculated for general happiness of any, yet risen to view, in 
the world. In this view of the British empire, my lord, I inces- 
santly pray for its prosperity, and sincerely lament all adverse 
circumstances. 

The hon. Thomas Gushing, speaker of the house of represen- 
tatives, Mr. Samuel Adams, Tohn Hancock, esq. and the hon. 
James Otis, of Barnstable, desire to present their respectful 
thanks to your lordship, for putting it in my power to gratify 
those you have distinguished, as of the same principles and senti- 
ments of civil and religious liberty with yourself. 

Situated as we are, my lord, in the wilderness of America, a 
thousand leagues distant from the fountains of honour and jus- 
tice, in all our distresses we pride ourselves in our loyally to the 
king, and our affection to the mother country." 



O T I 359 

their contempt for the good and wholesome laws of 
this province, they wrote letters against the coun- 
try ; and represented some worthy characters as 
guilty of political crimes which existed only in their 
pregnant fancies. Mr. Otis was one upon whom 
their malignity vented its poison. He called upon 
the commissioners individually, and as a board, foran 
explanation of some things which they had written 
against him. He used perhaps unguarded expres- 
sions in the heat of his resentment, upon which Mr. 
Robinson one ot the commissioners threatened to 
chastise him. They met at the coffee-house in 
State street, in the month of Sept. 1770, and an affray- 
took place, which caused serious consequences. 
The whole account may be seen in the papers of 
the times. The friends of one took oath, that Mr. 
Otis was attacked by numbers. On the other side, 
men swore that no man struck him but Mr. R. It 
was likewise said, that " it was a plan to kill him, 
contrived in Mr. Paxton's room." This w^as never 
brought forward at the trial : there it appeared that 
the attack of Mr. R. was base and cowardly ; but 
the other part of the story served to make the com- 
missioners more odious 

Mr. Otis prosecuted Robinson, and recovered 
2000 pounds, which sum he generously remitted 
upon his making an acknowledgment of his offence. 

He was subject to fits of insanity after this, and 
found it necessary to retire from publick business. 
At the election of representatives the ensuing sea- 
son the town of Boston sent him a letter of thanks 
for his publick services. They lamented his ill state 
of health, and earnestly prayed for his recovery. 
They publickly declared that his services were such 
as ought to be remembered with gratitude, and dis- 
tinguish him among the patriots of America. Mr. 
Bovvdoin, one of the counsellors, who had been 
negatived by gov. Bernard, was chosen in his place. 
The next year Mr. Otis recovered his health, and 
was again chosen representative. Whenever he en- 



360 O X E 

gaged in business, he was one of those, who gave 
his whole soul to the object, and, like other great 
jnen, lost his health by *' being overplied with pub- 
lick energies." He lived a number of years, and 
frequently rendered himself useful to the communi- 
ty. When his health would not permit him to en- 
gage in publick concerns, he retired into the coun- 
try. In one of these seasons of retirement, May 
29, 1783, as he was standing at the door of Mr. 
Osgood's house, in Andover,he was instantaneous- 
ly deprived of life by lightning.* 

Over IN G John, attorney general, came into this 
country with gov. Burnet. He was remarkable for 
his fluency of expression and agreeable manner of 
speakjng at the bar. He exercised his abilities in 
the lavvnyith great success, and acquired considera- 
ble fortune and influence. He held the office of at- 
torney general from the time of his appointment, in 
1728, to the administration of gov. Shirley. He 
died about the year 1745, and was succeeded in his 
office by Mr. Trowbridge. 

OxENBKiDGE JoHN, ouc of the ministers of the 
old church, in Boston, was born in Daventry, a 
town in Northamptonshire. He received the de- 



• The following lines are extracted from a [>oem, written by a 
gentleman of eminent character and worth, in Boston : 
" Blest with a native strength and fire of thought. 
With Greek and Roman learning richly fraught, 
Up to the fountain head he push'd his view, 
And from first principles his maxims drew. 
Spite of the times, this truth he blaz'd abroad, 
The people's safety is the law of God." 
His works are, " the rudiments of latin prosody, with a disser- 
tation on letters, and the principles of harmony, in poetick and 
prosaick composition, collected from some of the best writers," 
pp. 72, 1760 ; it is said to be a most clear and masterly treatise 
by the reviewers in the Monthly Anthology ; " A vindication of 
the house of representatives of Massachusetts," 1762 ; '' remarks 
on the Halifax libel," 1763; "rights of the British colonies," 
1764; ''considerations on behalf of the colonists," 1765. He 
wrote many political speculations in the Boston Gazette, which 
had a high reputation among the writings of those limes. 



PAR 361 

gree of master of arts, at Cambridge, A. D. 1631, 
where he finished his education, though at first he 
was sent to Oxford. He soon became a preacher 
of the gospel, and made several voyages to the West 
Indies. In the year 1644, he was ordained pastor 
of a church in Beverly, and was chosen fellow of 
Eton College. He is in the list of ejected minis- 
ters in 1662, published by Dr Calamy, who tells 
us, that he was settled at Berwick on the Tweed, 
where he was silenced. He sailed again for the 
West Indies ; went first to Surrinam, and, in '667, 
he was at Barbadoes. In 1669 he fixed at Boston, 
as colleague with Mr. Allen, after the death of Mr. 
Davenport. His name was John-, '" a man sent 
from God." Dr. Mather thinks it remarkable that 
he should succeed four of this name He was one 
of the most popular preachers in Massachusetts.* 
In all his compositions he seems to breathe an evan- 
gelical spirit. He died, Dec. 28. 1674 Towards 
the close of a sermon, which he was preaching at the 
Boston lecture, he was taken with an apoplexy, and 
continued only two days. 

His works are, " the duty of watchfulness," in a 
number of discourses ; the election sermon, 1671 ; 
a sermon entitled, " seasonable seeking of God." 
He also published " a proposition for propagating 
the gospel by christian colonies, in the continent of 
Guiana, being some gleanings of a large discourse." 
That large discourse was preserved some years. 
We know not where it can be obtained. Dr. Math- 
er says, he had read it, and found a grateful variety 
of entertainment. 

Parker Thomas, pastor of the chi rch at New- 
bury, was the son of Robert Parker, a famous con- 
troversial writer against the form and ceremonies of 
the church of England. He wrote a very learned 
book, " de Politia ecclesiastica." The son became 
also a very excellent scholar. He was educated at 
Dublin, under the care of the famous archbishop 

* Chalmer's annals. 

Y V 



362 PAR 

Usher. He afterwards studied with Dr. Ames, o£- 
received advice and assistance from him, while he 
continued his studies at Leyden. He received the 
degree of master of arts, when he was 22 years old, 
and the particular esteem of several divines, cele- 
brated in the Belgick universities. In the diploma 
they gave him they testified, " Ilium non sine ad- 
miratione audiverimus ;''' and, " se philosophise ar- 
tiumq ; liberalium peritissimum declaraverit." Af- 
ter leaving Holland, he resided at Newbury, in En- 
gland. He came into New England, in 1634, with 
many of his people, and settled in a spot on Merri- 
mack river, which was called Newbury, according 
to their desire. He applied himself to the study of 
the prophecies, and wrote several volumes, mostly 
in Latin. He was a man of the most extensive cha- 
rity and liberal principles. He thought too much 
satire was mingled in the fathers' writings against 
the bishops ; and because he expressed this in a 
preface to a book, president Chauncy entered into 
a controversy with him, calling him " Urijah the 
priest, who would set up the altar of Damascus to 
thrust out the brazen altar of the Lord's institution." 
Mr. Parker died in the month of x-Ypril, 1677, in the 
82d year of his age.* 

Parker Samuel, D, D. minister of Trinity 
church, Boston, and bishop of the protestant epis- 
copal church in Massachusetts, was born in Ports-, 

* The works of Mr. Parker upon the prophecies were never 
printed, except a commentary on Daniel, which he wrote in En- 
ghsh, and which is not according to the common opinion of expor 
sitors. When he was a young;' man, lie composed theses " de 
iraductione peccatoris ad vitam/' which have been bound up with 
Dr. Ames's smaller works. He did not choose to appear as the 
author at the time. 

Mr. Popkins, his successor in the pastoral office, mentions 
some facts not recorded in the Magnalia. He instructed a school, 
and took no pay. The pupils must be designed for the church 
or lie would not admit them. When he was blind he could teach 
Latin, Greek and Hebrew. He could talk in these languages, and 
even speak his mind upon occasions in arabick. — See appendix 
to tlie sermon of rev. J. S. Popkins, preached at quitting the olol 
and building the new meeting house, Newbury, 1806. 



!P A R 363 

tiiouth, New Hampshire. His fiither, judf^e Parker, 
was an eminent lawyer, a man of great integrity and 
benevolence, and for many years deacon of the first 
church in that town. The son was graduated at Har- 
vard College, 1764, with a view of being a minister of 
one of the congregational churches. He soon man- 
ifested a preference for the church of England, and, 
in 1773, received orders from Dr. Ternch, bishop of 
London, as an episcopal clergyman. He was chos- 
en assistant minister of Trinity church, Avhere he 
officiated above 30 years. His moderation and 
prudence were manifested upon some very import- 
ant occasions. Prejudices against episcopal cler- 
gymen were strong during the revolutionary war, 
because their political principles were on the side 
of government. He maintained the esteem of the 
people, and of ministers of other denominations, 
whose opinions were entirely diiferent. Among 
them his reputation was high as a clergyman, and he 
was looked up to, as the head of the episcopal church 
in New England. The university at Philadelphia 
presented him with a diploma of doctor in divinity. 
After the decease of bishop Bass, by an unanimous 
vote of their convention, he was elected to succeed 
him in his office. He was consecrated but a few 
months before he v/as seized with the disorder of 
which, after a second return, he died. 

His death was lamented by a numerous acquaint- 
ance. To many of these he was a very sincere 
friend : some of whom received his advice, others 
his bounty. He was an active and useful officer of 
several institutions for pious and humane purposes, 
capable of transacting a variety of business, and 
faithful in whatever he engaged. The several soci- 
eties attended his funeral, Dec. 9, 18tJ4, and an 
elegant discourse, well adapted to the occasion, 
was preached by his colleague, Mr. Gardiner, which 
was afterwards published. 

Partridge Ralph came into this country 
among the early planters, and was settled at Dux- 



364 PAR 

bury. He was one of the synod, who met at Cam- 
bridge, 1647, to compose the platform of church dis- 
cipline. Three gentlemen were appointed to draw a 
model of church government, according to the word 
of God. Each made a separate draft, and the synod 
collected from the whole, as they judged proper to 
complete their system of ecclesiastical government. 
The other gentlemen were Mr. Cotton and Mr. 
Mather, whose names rank with the great men of 
New England. When most of the ministers in the 
colony of Plymouth left their parishes, on account 
of the " paucity and poverty of their congregations," 
he remained with his people. They highly respect- 
ed him, and he died in a good old age about the 
year 1658. For more than 40 years he was a preach- 
er of the gospel, and was not interrupted by any 
bodily sickness. 

Parsons Moses, pastor of the church at Byfield, 
was graduated at Harvard College, 1736 ; ordained 
June 20, 1744 ; and died, Dec. 14, 1784, in the 68th 
year of his age. He was an excellent and judicious 
practical theologian ; conversant in the most sub- 
stantial parts of divinity, and could speak handsome- 
ly upon these subjects, as occasion required. His 
sermons were calculated to improve the mind, and 
affect the heart. His grand object was to establish 
essential points in religion, and the rest he left to 
the disputers of this world. He attended very par- 
ticularly to the circumstances of his flock, was very 
amiable in his domestick character, and much be- 
loved by his brethren in the ministry. 

An oration was pronounced at his funeral by the 
rev. Levi Frisbie, which is a handsome composition. 
The next Lord's day, Mr. Tappan of Newbury, af- 
terwards professor of divinity at the university at 
Cambridge, preached a funeral sermon, which is 
one of the best discourses that worthy man ever 
printed. 

Mr. Parsons preached the election sermon, 1772 ; 
it was well received and excited more than common 



PAY 365 

attention by the free manner in which he spake of 
the British nation. He was a whii^ from principle. 
He loved his country, but his zeal for its welfare 
and honour was tempered with great charity and 
moderation towards those whose politicks were dif- 
ferent. 

He left a number of children ; to several of his 
sons he gave a university education, one of whom 
is now chief justice of the state of Massachusetts ; 
another, who was graduated in 1773, was first a 
student in divinity, and then turned his attention to 
physick. 

"Mihi, post nullos sodales." 

The powers of his mind were great, his application 
to his studies very uncommon, and his conduct ex- 
emplary, but his death was immature, just as he 
had entered upon the duties of his profession. He 
sailed from Newbury port, as surgeon of a vessel, 
during the revolutionary war, which foundered at 
sea. 

" Huic neque defungi visumest, nee vivere pulclirum ? 
Cura fuit recte vivtre, sicque mod." 

Payson Phillips, son of the rev. Phillips Pay- 
son of Walpole, Massachusetts, was educated at 
Harvard College, and in the year 1754, received the 
honours of that university. 

He was ordained the minister of Chelsea, Oct. 
26, 1757, and continued to preach and perform all 
the duties of the ministry till a few weeks before his 
death. 

In the line of his profession he had a distinguish- 
ed reputation. His imagination was lively and vig- 
orous. His memory retentive. His discourses 
were well composed and evangelical. Like a wise 
master builder he looked at the foundation, while 
reasoning upon the moral duties, or describing, with 
a glowing pencil, the triumphs of the christian's 
hope. 

The diploma of doctor in divinity was presented 
him bv the seminarv where he received his educa- 



§66 PEL 

tion, a real testimony of his wisdom and worth, 
which gave pleasure to the friends of religion and 
learning. 

He had much classical erudition, and a fondness 
for the study of natural philosophy and mathematics. 

When the American academy of arts was institut- 
ed, he was one of the first members. He always 
shewed a zeal to promote the cause of science and 
every useful institution. 

He was a member of the society for propagating 
the gospel among the Indians and others in North 
America ; and also one of the Scotch commission- 
ers for the like benevolent purpose, being named in 
the commission, when the board in Scotland estab- 
lished a corresponding board in this country. 

Dr. Pay son was frank and open in his disposition, 
and had a ready utterance in conversation. With 
uncommon energy of expression he pourtrayed vice 
and meanness, tore the garb of the hypocrite, and 
exposed fanaticism in every shape. 

In his domestic and social relations he appeared 
with dignity and tenderness. As a companion was 
agreeable, and as a neighbour obliging ; warm in 
his friendship, hospitable in his house He was a 
condescending and instructive parent ; the kind, at- 
tentive, and affectionate husband. 

He was ready to every good work for the benefit 
of his people, mixing with them and interesting 
himself in their concerns : he encouraged the spirit 
ot industry in the town, and, upon proper occasions, 
administered the consolations of religion. Their 
attachment increased with his years. But while 
they were indulging hopes of returning health, and 
days of further usefulness, they beheld him, with 
grief and sorrow, among the trophies of the grave. 
He died Jan. 11, 1801, aged 65. 

Pelham Herbert, was one of the assistants in 
Massachusetts, and highly valued by the people. 
He was of the same family with the duke of New- 
castle. He tarried but a few years in NewEnglando 



P E M 367 

In 1646, he was one of the commissioners of the 
united colonies. In 1650 he lived upon his estate 
in England. He was intrusted by the colony of 
Massachusetts with some of their most important 
affairs, and was a s;reat promoter of the society for 
propagating the gospel among the Indians. Among 
the sixteen of whom the corporation first consisted, 
Herbirt Pelham stands the second on the list. 
Hutchinscn. Records United Colonies. 

Pemberton Keen >■ zer, pastor of the old south 
church, was born in Boston, A. D. 1672, and grad- 
uated at Harvard College, 1691. After some years 
residence at Cambridge, he was chosen fellow of 
the house, and, on the 28th of August, 1700, ordain- 
ed assistant to the venerable Samuel Willard. He 
was greatly valued and beloved while he lived, and 
had the reputation of as an accomplished a preach- 
er as this country ever produced. He died Feb. 
13, 1717, in the meridian of his gifts, usefulness, 
and age. 

Dr. Colman,in a sermon preached after his death, 
says, *' that he was a hard student from his childhood, 
and being blessed with brightness of mind, fervour 
of spirit, and strength of memory, he made wonderful 
dispatch. The college never had a more accom- 
plished tutor, nor one that more applied himself to 
teach and w^atch over the morals of it. His con- 
spicuous learning and piety soon fixed the eyes of 
Mr. Willard upon him to be the colleague of his 
age, and successor at his death. He was master of 
logick and oratory in great perfection. His delive- 
ry was lively and vigorous, being strongly convin- 
ced of the reality of things invisible and eternal. 
His warm and passionate temper (which was some- 
times his great infirmity) seemed here to set the 
greater edge, and give a further energy to his ad- 
mirable discourses." 

He says, likewise, " that he had a superiour soul, 
formed for great things, and was ever framing them, 
but that it was lodged in a distempered body." 



36S PEM 

Mr. Barnard thus describes Mr. Pemberton : "a 
man of strong genius, extensive learning, a posses- 
sor of raised thoughts, and a masculine style, of 
flaming zeal in the cause of God and religion, vio- 
lent in his passions, and as soft as you would wish 
for out of them, a good christian, and a faithful pas- 
tor."* 

A volume of sermons was printed after Mr. Pem- 
berton's decease. 'Jliey contain those he publish- 
ed ; and several which were added because they 
were much celebrated. There is among them a 
most masterly defence of the " validity of Presby- 
terian ordination." These discourses are written 
in the best style, and would do honour to any preach- 
er of the present age. They are wonderful com- 
positions for the period. When he prepared a ser- 
mon for the press, he M^as slow in correcting it ; 
every sentence he framed with deliberation and care. 
Hence he published very little. " He carried the 
mighty stores and treasures of his laborious studies 
in his own vast mind, and for the most part wrote 
only hints for himself to be enlarged upon in the 
pulpit." This may appear the language of an eu- 
logist ; but if there be any truth in tradition, it agrees 
with the opinion which was universally received of 
this eminent character. 

Pemberton Ebenezer, D. D. son of the rev. 
gentleman pastor of the Old South church, was de- 
prived ol his father's care and instruction at a ten- 
der age, but was blessed with a surviving parent, a 
woman of a most excellent spirit, and adorned with 
all the virtues of a christian. Her son has done 
due honour to her memory in the account he has 
published of her life and character. 

His friends intended him for a secular employment; 
but his inclination to a studious life prevailed, and 
he was educated at our publick university, at Cam- 
bridge, where he distinguished himself as a scholar, 

* Historical coUtctions, vol. x, 



P E M S69 

and made those improvements in useful knowledge, 
\vhich qualified him for the work of the ministry. 

Soon after he entered on publick preaching, he 
was appointed chaplain at castle William, by Mr. 
Dummer, the commander in chief of the province. 
In this pleasant and retired situation, he had a hap- 
py opportunity pf cultivating and improving his 
own mind, and at the same ^ime do good to others. 

There was one circumstance, whicJi rendered the 
situation peculiarly desirable. The castle was the 
usual residence of the Ueut. governour, in whom 
were united the gentleman and christian, and un- 
der whose wise and just administration the province, 
for some years, enjoyed great quiet and prosperity. 
This honourable person condescended to admit Mr. 
Pemberton to an acquaintance, that was both agree- 
able and useful, and which continued with mutual 
esteem till Mr. Dummer was admitted to the world 
of spirits. 

His services in the fortress were only preparatory 
to a larger scene of action. He was soon invited to 
take i\\e charge of the Presbyterian church in the 
city of New York, and was publickly set apart to 
that important trust by the ministers of this town. 
The late Dr Cohuan preached the ordination ser- 
mon. In this conspicuous orb he moved for twen- 
ty two years. At length a spirit of discord broke 
loose in the society. Though the pastors had no part 
in the dispute, yet the contention ran so high, that 
Mr. Pemberton, and his worthy colleague, the rev. 
Mr. Gumming, thought themselves obliged to apply 
to the presbytery for a dismission. Just at this time, 
the church in Middle street, Boston, was deprived, 
of their pastors, Mr Welsteed and Mr. Gray, two 
excellent men, " pleasant in their lives, in their 
deaths not divided." This christian society unan- 
imously chose Mr. P. to be their pastor, and he 
was introduced to the pastoral charge, 1753. 

While at New York, he had been praeses of the 
bpard of correspondents, commissioned by the soci- 

z z 



370 P K M 

ety in Scotland, for propagating^ christian knowledge 
among the Indians in New England and parts ad- 
jacent. 

While he was pastor of the church in Boston, the 
honourable and reverend trustees of the college in 
jNew Jersey, to which board he formerly belonged, 
presented him with a diploma of doctor in divinity. 
It was the first occasion of their exercising this priv- 
ilege. 

His piety was of that fervent kind for which his 
father was remarkable. He had not his superiour 
powers of mind, and in his old age grew unpopular 
in his delivery, though in former times he drew 
crowded assemblies by his manner. His reading, 
however, was extensive, and his sermons correct in 
diction and style. He was a calvinist, according to 
the principles of our fathers, and zealous against ar- 
minianism, so as to provoke the satire of writers, 
" who worshipped the God of their fathers after the 
way, which is called heresy ;" but in the latter years 
of his life, those who were conversant with him ob- 
served a candour and charity to such as entertained 
different sentiments on some points of doctrine up- 
on which great stress has been laid. He vehement- 
ly aspired after the spirit of the gospel, and had the 
consolations of it during a long and trying sickness. 
Instead of suffering from the fear of death, he seem- 
ed to possess the peace, which passeth all under- 
standing. 

Dr. P. died, Sept. 15, 1777, aged 73, and in the 
5 1 St year of his ministry. He published, a few 
years before his death, a volume of sermons upon 
** salvation by grace." While he was minister of 
New York he printed several occasional sermons ; 
and a small volume on " the wondtifiil propagation 
of the gospel, and the coming of Christ." He 
preached the election sermon in 1756 ; the Dudleian 
lecture in 1766. he also printed a sermon, preach- 
ed at the Thursday lecture, after the death of Mr. 
Whitelield, in 1770. Character oj Dr. Femberton^ 
ms. by a friend. 



PEP 371 

Peppehell sir Willi am, was a merchant, dis- 
tinguished for his opulence, integrity and polite- 
ness. He was early in life chosen a representative 
to the general court, and sat at the council board 32 
years. He had a martial turn of mind, which was 
increased by living in a part of the country the most 
exposed to the ravages of the French and Indians. 
From being a subaltern officer in the militia, he 
rose to the highest military rank, and was equally 
qualified to command a large army, and to adorn his 
civil station by his virtue and wisdom. When the 
plan was formed to attack Louisburg, it gave ani- 
mation to the troops, and to the people in general, 
that such a man was to lead them. Nothing but a 
zeal for his country's good could have carried him 
from the scenes of domestiek enjoyment, and from 
the head of his majesty's council, the highest hon- 
our his native countr}^ could bestow upon him, to 
the fatigues of a camp, and uncertain victory. In- 
deed, many of our most judicious people thought 
the expedition romantick, and had it not been suc- 
cessful, no bravcn or prudent conduct of the com- 
mander u'ould have sa\'ed his reputation ; nor would 
the loss to the publick have been ever brought into 
,any calculation. It ended much to the honour of New 
England, and was certainly the most glorious event 
of the war. '• The illustrious undertaking being so 
well accomplished, it caused the name of sir Wil- 
liam Pepperell to spread far and wide, and to be re- 
membered with gratitude and respect by succeed- 
ing generations." The king bestowed upon him 
the title and dignity of a baronet of Great Britain, 
an honour never before conferred on a native of 
these North American provinces. He had also a 
commission of colonel of a regiment which was then 
to be raised for the preservation of Cape Breton. 
Many would have appeared vain, and been bloated 
with an idea of their own consequence with a small 
part of the honours conierred upon this gentlemi'Ji. 
He received the thanks of the ministry, congr2\tul,a^ 



3t2 t* E T 

tory addresses were made to him, peculiar tokens 
of respect and affection were shown him by several 
branches of the Royal family ; but his manners did 
not change by his exaltation to honour. His affa- 
bility gained him friends among all classes of peo- 
ple,and he conciliated, still more the affections of his 
former acquaintance. He had a deep sense of the 
providence of the Supreme Being, which seemed 
to influence every action of his life, and made him 
modest and humble. He made an open profession 
of religion, and exhibited the christian virtues to 
the credit of his religious sentiments ; he died at 
his seat in Kittery, July 6, 1759, aged 63 ; and 
exhibited the Christian hero on his death bed, 
mteting the conflicts of the last enemy with forti- 
tude and putting entire confidence in the Captain of 
his salvatiort.* 

Petlrs Hugh, minister of the church of Salem, 
was born, 1 599, in Foy, Cornwall. He was edu- 
cated at the university of Cambridge, where he re- 
ceived his master's degree, 1622. He was licens- 
ed to preach by Dr. Mountain, bishop of London y 
and preached with such success, that he converted 
muliitudes every week. According to his own ac- 
count 11 auditory of 7000 assembled at one time at 
iSepul iie church A general remark may be made 
upon preachers at certain times. They will draw 
tile multitude, if they have a great deal of zeal, and 
a strong voice. It often happens, that they have 
zeal w ithout knowledge, and faith without charity. 
Such a preacher was Hugh Peters ; but active and 
enterprising, one who would push himself forward, 
as the head of a party, and overcome every difficul- 
ty by his bold adventurous spirit. He left England 

* Notices of the life of sir William Pepperell may be found in 
a most excellent discourse which his minister and friend Dr. 
Stevens published after his death. Also in the first volume of 
the Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society. The 
actions of this illustrious American officer are related likewise by 
the English writers in the histories of the French waV v/hich 
ended with the peace of Aix la Chnpelie. 



PET 373 

becjtlise he had scruples about confoiining to the 
ceremonies of the episcopal church : or, because the 
ruling power *' persecuted the saints." He went 
first to Holland, and he was pastor of a church in 
Rotterdam. The celebrated Dr. Ames was his 
colleague, and died in his arms. He arrived in 
JiTew England, A. D. 1635. Sir Ferdinando Gor- 
ges says, *' this year came that famous servant of 
Christ, Hugh Peters, whose courage was not infe- 
rior to any." He was invited to the pastoral office 
at Salem, t)ec. 21, 1636, and was very respectable 
among the fathers of the country, for his piety^ 
as well as the lively interest he took in the concerns 
of the plantation. During five years that he was 
minister the town flourished ; and he was the instru- 
ment of its prosperity. He stimulated his people 
to engage in commerce. " He formed the plan of 
the fishery, of the coasting voyages, of the foreign 
voyages ; and among many other vessels, one of 
300 tons w^as undertaken by his influence. He pro- 
vided the carpenters, and entered largely into trade, 
with great success." He received from his church 
200 acres of land in what is now called Northfield, 
and several other spots of ground, which were con- 
sidered as a reward for his services. His farm still 
bears the name of Peter's neck. 

'As a politician he took very decided ground. 
The country was then divided between Winthrop 
and Vane. Each had his party. The ostensible 
cause was a religious controversy about the cove- 
nant of grace -and a covenant of works, but it had a 
great influence upon the politicks of the day. Vane 
was a rigid Antimonian. The old church of which 
Wheelwright and Cotton were ministers were zeal- 
on the same side. The pastor, Mr. Wilson, and 
gov. Winthrop, and the elders of other towns, 
were for those principles, which agreed with most 
churches of the reformation. Hugh Peters was 
strenuous to support them. He exerted every 
wrve to help the interest of gov. Winthrop, who 



374 PET 

Avas again chosen governour in 1637 ; and " paid 
a just tribute to Mr. Peter's activity and publick 
spirit." 

In 1641, Mr. Peters was sent to England, as 
agent for Massachusetts. It was supposed a man, 
so active in commercial pursuits, could represent 
the colony upon the laws of excise and trade. The 
persons designed to this business, according to 
Winthrop, *' were, Mr. Peters of Salem, Mr. Weld 
of Roxbury, and Mr. Hibbins of Boston. When 
it was proposed to the church of Salem, Mr. Endi- 
cot opposed it. Some reasons were offered, as that 
officers should not be taken from their churches for 
civil occasions, that the voyage would be long and 
dangerous, &c." But in the true style of New -Eng- 
land, something was added about the reformation of 
the churches, which made the business of the agency 
more palatable to those who were against sending 
clergymen to negociate regulations of trade. Mr. 
Peters and Mr. Weld would, however, have been 
more serviceable to the souls of men in their own 
country, than they were in managing their tempo- 
ral interests in Great Britain. Inhere Mr. Peters 
was duped by the creatures of Oliver Cromwell to 
serve the views of his policy. He was exactly 
suited to act the extravagant part he did, because 
he could be wrought up to a political or religious 
phrenzy adapted to the circumstances of the times, 
or the madness of the nation. He would either 
fight or pray, as his services were thought necessary. 
He, who had his flock in the American wilderness, 
wasslayingand killinghis fellow creatures amidst the 
armies of hurope. For it is certain he led a brig- 
ade into Ireland, and came off victorious. He was 
also very famous as a political preacher. His dis- 
courses before the king were abominable for the se- 
verity of their sarcasms, and evil tendency of the 
sentiments delivered. Doubtless thinscs Vvcre ex- 
aggerated by the other party ; but his own express- 
ions were not only vulgar, calculated not only., to 






PET 375 

give pain to fallen majesty, but to increase the pre- 
judices of those, whose anger was fierce, and their 
wrath cruel. If falsehoods were spread to make Mr. 
Peters' character odious or ridiculous, what gave 
rise to these stories, but certain eccentricities or 
extravagancies of which no other man was guilty ? 

His friends bring testimonies of his kind atten- 
tion to Charles. He says himself, " I had access 
to the king. He used me civilly. I, in requital, offer- 
ed my poor thoughts three times for his safety. I 
never had a hand in contriving or acting his death, 
as I am scandalised, but the contrary to my main 
power." 

It is easy to reconcile the different accounts giv- 
en, by supposing every thing true, which is related, 
concerning the preaching and coarse declamation 
of Hugh Peters before the king's condemnation. 
And yet he might be moved with compassion when 
he saw him struggling with adversity, and returning 
civilities for the rude treatment, which had been 
given. Is it not natural for tenderness of spirit to 
succeed the ebullition of violent passions ? We 
learn nothing very exceptionable in Peters' conduct 
after this. Cromwell appointed him one of the 
" triers for the ministry," and a *' commissioner for 
amending the laws," but he speaks humbly of his 
qualifications. " When I was a trier of others, I 
went to hear, and gain experience, rather than to 
judge, when I was called about weighing laws, I 
rather was there to pray, then to amend laws. But 
in these things I confess I might as well have been 
spared." 

He was, however, the only one, of all the Inde- 
pendent ministers, condemned to the scaffold. 
Others were equally guilty, and doubtless as ob- 
noxious to Charles. It is probable, he had offend- 
ed some by his rudeness and ill manners, who ex- 
erted the influence they had, after the restoration, 
to wreak their vengeance upon him. And his own 
friends were all out of the way. 



S76 P E T 

The manner of his death was shocking. Such 
fortitude as he discovered would have made anoth- 
er man called a hero. Ludlow relates, that chief 
justice Cooke and Mr. Peters were ordered to be 
executed the same day. They were carried to the 
place of execution on two sleds, the head of major 
general Harrison being placed on that which carried 
the chief justice and directed towards him, which, 
instead of producing the designed effect, tended on- 
ly to animate him. Before he died, he received 
Other marks of insult. To which he replied, " that 
it had not been the custom in the most barbarous 
nations much less in England to insult over a dying 
man." When he was cut down, and ordered to 
be quartered, a col. Turner called to the sheriff's 
men to bring Peters' to see what was doing ; which, 
being done, the executioner came to him, and rub- 
bing his bloody hands together, asked him, How he 
liked this work ? He told him he was not at all ter- 
rified, and that he might do his worst. And when 
he was upon the ladder, he said, " Sir, you have 
butchered one of the servants of God before my 
eyes, and have forced me to see it, in order to ter- 
rify and discourage me, but God has permitted it 
for my support and encouragement." 

To make Mr. Peters more odious, a story was 
propagated of his being the very man who, in dis- 
guise, cut off the king's head. This was never be- 
lieved by the persons who spread the report. 

His ministerial conduct while he was in England 
has been the subject of animadversion. He was 
more respectable among his brother clergymen, as 
a preacher, than he appeared before Cromwell, and 
the army, when he beat the pulpit drum to carry on 
their warfare. It is said, he was not friendly to 
the charities for propagating the gospel among 
the Indians. This is a fact. He, perhaps, had 
little hopes of success. Allowing the prospect 
fair, he spake with contempt of the management of 
tJieir friends, and of their parsimonious treatment of 



PHI 377 

Mr. Eliot, of which that good man complains. The 
president of the society, Mr. Steel, thus writes to 
the commis ,ioners of the united colonies in a letter, 
dated 18th Feb. 1653 : " Mr. Peters who but U 
days before told Mr. Winslow in plain terms he 
heard the work was only a cheat, and that there was 
no such thing as gospel conversion among them 
presently after charged the same man, upon a letter 
he received from Mr. Weld, that you, the commis- 
sioners of the united colonies, forbad the work in 
that you would not allow competent maintenance to 
Mr. tliot and others that laboured therein ; and 
however we have otherwise charitable thoughts of 
Mr, Peters ; yet he has been all along a bad instru- 
ment towards this work who though of a committee 
of the army for the advance of it amongst them yet 
protested against contributing a penny towards it 
in his person ; and indeed some of us have been 
fain to intreat the rest of the gentlemen not to trou- 
ble him any further in the business : nor know we 
any cause unless it be that the work is coming to 
such perfection and he hath not had the least hand 
or finger in it."* Records United Colonies^ 'vol. ii, 
page 313. Bentley^s History of Salem. Critical 
Z,i/e of Hugh Peters, 

Phillips GEOHct, pastor of the church at 
Watertown, is called, by Dr. Cotton Mather, " one 
of the first saints in New England." He was born 
at Raymiind in Great Britain, and had an universi- 
ty education, ,lput the name of the college is not 

* The publications of Mr. Peters are, a sermon preached before 
both houses of parliament, the lord mayor and aldermen of Lon- 
don, and assembly of divines, 4lo. 1646 ; Peters's last report of 
the English wars, occasioned by the importunity of a friend, 
pressing an answer to some queries,printed the same year, 4to. ; 
a word for the army, and two words to the kingdom, to clear the 
one, and cure the other, forced in much plainness and brevity, 
from their faithful servant Hugh Peters, 1647; he also wrote, 
good work for a good magistrate, or a short rut to great quiet ; 
and the legacy to his daughter, which was published after his e^:- 
edition. 

3 A 



378 PHI 

mentioned. He was eminent for his memory and 
invention, and his diligent reading of the fathers. 
He was settled at Boxford, in Essex, before he 
came to New *- ngland, with gov. VVinthrop, in 
1630, His wife died at Salem, upon their arriv- 
al, and she was buried near the lady Arabella 
Johnson. When the company chose their set- 
tlements about Charles River, l^e fixed upon a plea- 
sant spot, which has ever since been called Water- 
town ; and, upon a day set apart for solemn fasting 
and prayer, they entered into a covenant.* It was 
signed by sir Richard Saltonstall at the head of 40 
names. He continued pastor of the flock 14 years, 
and died greatly lamented, July 1, 1644. 

In Winthrop's journal, among the events of the 
year, it is written, " July 2d, George Phillips was 
buried, he was the first pastor of the church at Wa- 
tertown, a godly man, specially gifted, and very 
peaceful in his place, much lamented of his own 
people, and others." 

He left a son, Samuel, who was afterwards min- 
ister of the church in Rowley. 

He published ** a vindication of infant baptism ; 
and of the church." It was recommended by the 
London ministers. Mr. Shepard of Cambridge 
wrote a preface to it. He also wrote letters in an- 
swer to Mr. Shepard, who differed from him upon 
some points of church discipline. Neither his or 
Mr. Shepard 's arguments were printed. 

Phillips Samuel, lieut. governour of Massa- 
chusetts, was the son of Samuel Phillips, esq. of 
Andover. He was educated at Harvard College, 
where his conduct was peculiarly correct and ex- 
emplary. He was much esteemed by his fellow 
students, as well as by officers of the society. 
Among the ingenuous youth of the university 
were certain associations for practical improvement 
and usefulness. They consisted generally of good 
scholars, who combined good principles and pure 

* This writing is preserved in the Magnalia. 



PHI 379 

morals with an ambition to shine as sons of knowl- 
edge. At the head of these, and among the most 
active, was Phillips^ whose name and character were 
often mentioned to stimulate others to adorn their 
own lives. He was graduated in 1771. When he 
left college it was supposed he would enter one of 
the professions ; but he turned his attention to oth- 
er pursuits. He was, however, persuaded to go into 
publick life, and though he never neglected his pri- 
vate concerns, but was a diligent promoter of every 
good thing in the small circle of those, who " rose 
:Up and called him blessed," yet was he as assidu- 
ous and unwearied in his attention to his publick 
duties of the general court. He seemed to make it 
a pait of religious principle to be punctual to his 
engagements, that he might redeem time in every 
way possible. Hence he was able to accomplish so 
much business, besides alluring others to diligence 
by his example. He was representative from his 
native town in the year 1775, a year remarkable in 
our annals, and was then called one of the best 
speakers in the assembly. For a number of years 
he was in the lower house ; but as soon as the 
constitution was formed for the state, he was chos- 
en a senator from the county of Essex. It was 
during the winter of 1779, 80, the draught of the 
committee, which was presented to the conven- 
tion, became the subject of discussion. Mr. Phil- 
lips was of the committee that made the draught, 
and supported the main questions in it in the larger 
assembly. In 1785, he was chosen president of the 
senate, and continued to be elected till he was hon- 
oured with the second place in the government. In 
1781, he was also appointed justice of the court of 
common pleas, and held the office till the year 1797, 
During the whole period of his publick life, he 
was very friendly to the interests of literature. It 
was a rare thing to find him absent from the board 
©f overseers of the University. He was often on 



386 PHI 

committees, and improved the opportunities to 
render essential services to the place of his educa- 
tion. He was one of the founders and original mem- 
bers of the academy of arts and sciences. 

In 1793, he received a diploma of doctor of laws, 
which, in the opinion of our first lawyers, was be- 
stowed with great judgment. 

He was a professor of religion from his youth, 
and possessed a very evangelical spirit. This was 
manifested in fruits of piety, virtue and benevolence. 
By his will, we find he employed his last days in ex- 
hibitions of the law of kindness which should yield 
their fragrance after his body was laid m the dust. 
The first object of his legacies was, to serve the ris- 
ing generation, that they might early know, that, 
without being good, they could never be happy. 
He also left a considerable sum towards promoting . 
the cause of religion and learning, which is not in- 
cluded in the charity for the benefit of district 
schools. He supported years of ill health and bo- 
dily infirmities, until he breathed his last, Feb. 10, 
1802, in the 50th year of his age.* 

' * Other gentlemen of the name of PhilHps have made a con- 
siderable figure in New F.ngland,eitheras magistrates, or divines. 
Rev. Samuel Phillips ot Rowley, and the rev. bamuel Phil- 
lips, grandfather to the lieut. governour, and pastor of the first 
church in Andover, were gentlemen highly respectable in their 
profession. 

The hon. John Phillips, of Charlestown, who died in 1709. He 
was for many years one of his majesty's council. 

John Phillips, esq. of Boston, colonel of the Boston regiment, 
and representative for the town at the general court. 

William Phillips, esq, of Boston, son of the rev. Mr. P. of An- 
dover, was higlily distinguished among the patriots of 1775. At 
that time he was one of the Boston representatives, and was af- 
terwards of the senate of Massachusetts. He was one of the 
most opulent merchants in the town, and his name is worthy of 
respect for his many benevolent exertions to promote useful in- 
stitutions. Mr. Phillips was a member of the convention which 
formed the state constitution ; and also a member of the conven- 
tion which adopted the constitution of the United States. 

Sftfnvjel Phillips, the father of the lieut. governour, was a per- 



PHI 38i 

Phips sir William, was born at Pemaquid, 
Feb. 2, 1650. His mother had 26 children. Of 
these, 21 were sons, and William one of the young- 
est, who lived with his mother until he was 18 years 
old. The father died when he was a child. He 
then bound himself to a ship carpenter, and after- 
wards set up his trade at Boston. He was so illite- 
rate that he could not read nor write, but discover- 
ed talents, and a remarkable spirit of enterprise. 
He soon acquired learning sufficient for all the pur- 
poses of common life, and address enough to re- 
commend himself to a young widow of a respecta- 
ble family, with whom he became connected by 
marriage. When he became master of his trade, he 
built a ship at Sheepscot river ; but was soon driv- 
en off" by the Indians. Afterwards he followed the 
sea, and hearing of a Spanish wreck near the Baha- 
mas, he went to England, and offered to go in search 
of it. They sent him upon this business in the Al- 
gier and Hose frigates, but he failed of success. 
This was in 1683. But instead of being discour- 
aged he importuned to be sent once more with a 

son of note in tlie town and country where he lived. He was 
graduated at Cambridge, 1 734, was justice of the peace, represcn- 
lative and counsellor. He fouiKled the academy at Anduver, in 
1778, with the assistance of his brother William Phillips, esq. ami 
his other brother John Phillips, esq. of Exeter in New Hamp- 
shire. The genileman last mentioned was i!;raduattd at Har- 
vard College, 1735 ; had a degree of doctor of laws from Dart- 
mouth University, and rendered himself very consq^icuous, while 
he lived, for his benevolent deeds. He founded and lil)crully en- 
dowed an academy at I£x';ter,and at his death left large sums for 
pious and literary institutions. 

In the " retrospect of the eighteenth century" by the ixv. Dr. 
Miller of Xew Voik, that excellent writer observes, '* The fanii- 
ly of Phillips in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, has been 
long distinguished for its great wealtii, and also for its love ol 
religion and literature. A complete history of the numiiicenc" 
towards publick institutions at dilTerent limes, by the members ol 
this (imiily, would probably furnish an amount of benefaction', 
seldom equalled in this co\mtry." 

He also observes, " that in furnishing instances of individual li- 
berality to publick institutions it is believed that Massachu^etr"? 
exceeds all other states," 



382 PHI 

kind of romantlck assurance which mi^ht strike ad- 
venturers, but would never succeed with men of 
calculation. The duke of Albemarle fitted him out 
for a second voyage, and he brousjht from the wreck 
300,000 pounds, his own share being only about 
16,000. For this success he was much applauded, 
and the king knighted him. He also appointed him 
high sheriff of New England, but not falling in with 
the measures of Andross and Randolph, his place 
was not easy to him, and he returned to the old 
country. While he remained in Boston, he built a 
large brick house in Charter street, which even at 
this day makes an elegant appearance. 

He always said that when he was a poor sheep 
shearer at Kennebeck river, he dreamt that he should 
be captain of a ship, and build a brick house in 
Boston. This is related by C. Mather, with a luim- 
ber of marvellous circumstances. King James of- 
fered him the government of New England, but he 
did not accept it. 

In 1690, he took Port Royal, but was not so suc- 
cessful in the expedition against Quebec, The 
accounts of these military enterprises are recorded 
in the annals of those times. At the anniversary 
election, 1690, May 30, sir William Phips was 
chosen by the freemen a magistrate of the colony. 
He did not stay long in Boston, however, but em- 
barked again for England, to solicit an expedition to 
Canada, being fully assured that it was in his pow- 
er to reduce the province to the subjection of the 
British government. At this time the agents of 
Massachusetts were making application to king 
William for a restoration of their old charter. 
When this could not be obtained, and the charter of 
William and Mary was accepted, sir William Phips 
was invested with a commission to be ** captain gen- 
eral and governour in chief over the province of 
Massachusetts Bay in New England." He arrived 
at Boston, May 14, 1690. 

Different opinions will always be held of men in 



PHI 383 

public stations. Sir William Phips sought the 
good of the country, according to his own appreherv. 
sion. " Pakst envy must allow this," says Dr. 
Mather, who devotes nearly 40 pages of the Magna- 
lia to the bioi^raphy of this gentleman. He says it 
is not enough to call him " father of the province, 
but he should be called the angel, assigned to the 
special care of it, by a singular deputation from 
heaven." In another place, he speaks of his " be- 
ing dropped from the machine of heaven." It 
seems, however, that sir William had the passions 
of men, and discovered strong corporeal qualities ; 
for he would quarrel, sometimes, with the officers of 
government, and use his fists upon certain occasions 
to bring them to his own views of a proper conduct. 
Instances of this sort with a captain of a man 
of war, and a collector, occasioned complaints 
against him, which he was sent for to answer. He 
had an opportunity there to justify himself, accord- 
ing to Mr. Hutchinson, and was about returning to 
his government, but was taken sick and died in 
London about the middle of February, 1694. He 
was buried in the church of St. Mary Wolnoth. 
The character of sir William Phips which others 
give, setting aside the life of him by Dr. Cotton 
Mather, which is rather an eulogy upon one of 
the pious members of his church, is, that he was 
a blunt honest man, who had a lively confidence 
in every thing he undertook, open hearted and 
generous, but vulgar in speech and manners. 
His talents were considerable, otherwise he never 
could have done so much, or obtained such promo- 
tion. This, however, has been attributed to fortu- 
nate circumstances rather than to superiour abili- 
ties. Histories of JVeiv England, by Mather, Doug- 
lass, Hutchinson. 

Phips 6pe\cer, lieut. governour of Massachu- 
setts, was nephew, and adopted son, of sir William. 
He was a man of respectability rather than influence 
in the provijice, and was more indebted to his 



384 PIE 

uealth and connections for his rising to office, than 
any thing very splendid in his abilities, or patriot- 
ick in his character. He was of his majesty's coun- 
cil a number of years before he was appointed lieut. 
governour. Mr. Adam Winthrop was a candidate 
for this office when Mr. Tailer died in 1732. He 
was the friend of Belcher, who solicited in his fa- 
vour ; but the friends of Mr. Phips were more pow- 
erful, and obtained the place for him. He was lieut. 
o;overnour from 1732 to the year of his death. 
While Shirley was in the chair, he expressed an 
opinion that the lieut. governour was not a coun- 
sellor ex officio. It was supposed he was. He 
had been always so considered, and therefore he 
was not chosen by the legislature. The conduct 
of Shirley gave great disgust to the lieut. govern- 
our, and led him to much retirement. He is re- 
presented as a very prudent and upright magistrate. 
He was several times in the chair of government, 
and was in this office, as commander in chief of the 
province, when he died. This event took place, 
April 4, 1757. 

PiERSoN Abraham was from Yorkshire. He 
came into New England, and joined the Boston 
church. Afterwards he went to Long Island, with a 
number of families, who removed from Lynn in Mas- 
sachusetts, to this new plantation. They incorporat- 
ed themselves into a church state before they went, 
and also entered into a civil combination, for the 
maintaining government among themselves. This 
was about the year 1640. The town they settled 
was called Southampton, east end of Long Island. 
Part of this church afterwards divided, and went ov- 
er upon the main, and settled Brainford. By ad- 
vice of the council, Mr. P. went with them. The 
year of his death is not mentioned, only that he di- 
ed, leaving the name of a prudent and pious man.* 

• Dr. Mather mentions three vorthy divines of New Havei^ 
rolony, who were famous in their day. Mr Blackman, Mr. 
Pierson. and Mr. Denton,thefirstminister of Stamford, who was 



P O W 385 

In the records of the united colonies, there is fre. 
quent mention made of his services to the Indians, 
for which he had a fixed salary. When Mr. Eliot 
was allowed 40/. Mr. Pierson had 15/. He was 
a misbionar}^ whose services are mentioned with re- 
spect by the corporation in England. They ordered 
1500 copies of a catechism which he wrote in the 
Indian lani^uas>;e to be printed and dispersed. Mag" 
nal'ta. Records of U. C. 

Pierson Abraham, rector of Yale College, son 
of the minister of Brainford, was graduated at Har- 
vard College, 1668. He was soon after ordained 
over the church at Killingsworth. In the year 
1700, he was appointed one of the fellows of Yale 
College, and the succeeding year chosen to preside 
over that seminary, with the title of rector. His 
character was high as a scholar and divine. While 
he held this office, he composed a system of natur- 
al philosophy, which was used by the students for 
many years. He was a very zealous calvinist, and 
strongly attached to the form and discipline of the 
Kew England churches. It was the general wish 
of the people of Connecticut to remove the College 
from Say brook ; but they were not able to accom- 
plish it during the rectorship of Mr. Pierson. The 
people of Killingsworth opposed it, who enjoyed 
the excellent preaching of their pastor ; the expense 
of the removal also, was more than could be allow- 
ed from their funds. This took place after his 
death. The rector died in April, 1707, and was 
greatly lamented. Private 77iss. Holmes^ account 
of Tale College. 

PowNALL Thomas, governourof Massachusetts 
Bay, \\as descended Irom a respectable family in 
England. His mother was daughter of John Burnis- 
ton, governour of Bombay ; his brother, John Pow- 
nail, esq. was secretary to the lords of trade, &c, 

also a Yorkshire man, and first settled at Halifax, in EngUmd. 
"Though he was a little man, says he, his Weil accomplished 
mind was as an ' lUad in a nut sliell." 

3 ^ 



386 P O W 

and was more acquainted with the affairs of these 
plantations than any man in England. By his at- 
tention to the business, many thousand papers re- 
lating to the history of the colonies are now regu- 
larly filed, and preserved for future use, which had 
been neglected and scattered, and in a few years 
would have been entirely destroyed. What pre- 
cious documents they are may be known by any one, 
who has read Chambers's political annals ! 

In 1757, Mr. Pownall was appointed governour 
of Massachusetts, in the room of Shirley. He ar- 
rived in Boston the beginning of August, and im- 
mediately received to his confidence those gentle- 
men, who were styled friends to liberty and the 
constitution of the province. These had opposed 
the late administration, which had been strongly sup- 
ported by most who held offices in the state, at the 
head of whom were Hutchinson, Oliver, Paxton, 
&c. A lawyer of very eminent abilities, Mr. Pratt, 
who was afterwards chief justice of New York, and 
a popular clergyman, the rev. Dr. Cooper, were 
always considered as the principal friends and ad- 
visers of gov. Pownall. They were men of talents ; 
but talents, wit and satire were more conspicuous 
on the other side, and he was deeply wounded by 
the shafts of ridicule, or by serious attacks upon 
his conduct. When he found his intrigues exposed, 
by a pamphlet written at New York,* and so large 
a part of the government of Massachusetts in favour 
of those whom he had injured ; his great preten- 
sions to learning of no avail with the literary socie- 
ties ; his own manners, light and debonnaire, so in- 
consistent with the grave and sober habits of New 
England, he solicited a recall from this government, 
and was appointed successor to gov. Littleton of 
South Carolina. He sailed from Boston to London 
the 3d. of May, 1760, After his arrival in England 
he obtained offices, which he preferred to a govern- 
ment in North America. He was chosen a mem- 

• Historical Collections, vol. vii. 



P O W 387 

ber of the British parliament, and, in 1762, appoint, 
ed general of controul, with the rank of lieut. col- 
onel, to the combined army in Germany, a short 
time previous to the peace of 1763. 

During the time of his being in the parliament he 
was in the opposition ; of consequence, a friend to 
the colonies. His speeches and writings against 
the measures employed to bring them into subjec- 
tion, were read in our house of representatives, and 
reprinted with lively demonstrations of gratitude 
and joy. The patriotick exertions of this gover- 
nour were contrasted with the wicked designs of 
the tory administration which succeeded. Pownall 
was as much the idol of the whigs as Bernard and 
Hutchinson were odious to them.* 

Mr. Pownall had no small influence in the house 
of commons from his knowledge and experience in 
American affairs. While those who knew nothing 
of the colonies represented them as turbulent, un- 
grateful, and without any merit in the conduct of 
the war which secured Canada and the West Indies 
to the British crown, he pointed out " the aid they 
afforded the British arms whenever they were em- 

* A town in the district of Maine, was named Pownalborough- 
Part of the lands before they were located, were granted to the 
governour. In his latter days he desired these might be sold, or 
leased in such a manner, as a fund might be raised for the estab- 
lishment of a professorship of law in Harvard College. This 
town is nov/ divided ; part of it is called Wiscasset, and the other 
part Dresden. The reason given for the alteration was, that 
Wiscasset was the Indian name, and the name by which it was 
known. It is riglu to preserve the Indian name ; but why 
change that of Pownal for Dresden ? It was supposed to be a 
prettier sound ; but ought any thing less than a weighty conside- 
ration to make wise men change the name of a place ? Especial- 
ly when a town has been so called out of res; ;;ct to a benefactor 
to the country. Pownall was a great friend to this province, and 
the friends of the revolution loved him. Why should his name 
or services be forgotten ? Besides the injustice of the thing, it is 
bad policy- Wlio is secure of the honours given him by one gen- 
eration, ii the next, from the whim of the occasion, will take it 
away ? Shall the name ha lost before the mould gathers on the 
sepulchral monument, or the letters grow illegible on thegra\e 
stone ? How will this lessen the stimulus to patriotick exertions ! 



388 P R A 

ployed from the year 1 755 to the peace of PariSj 
1763 ;" he censured the measures in operation 
against the colonies ; he urged the expediency of 
repealing the revenue acts, and redressing every 
grievance, not merely as an act of justice to them, 
but for the honour and true interest of Great Bri- 
tain. 

He lived long enough to see many things take 
place which he predicted. The pride of opinion was 
gratified ; but doubtless he lamented the dividing of 
the nation. He enjoyed much leisure in old age, 
and employed himself in writing books, which man- 
ifest great political knowledge, some scientifick re- 
search, but cannot be recommended for an easy and 
correct style.* He died, Feb. 1, 1785. 

Pratt Benjamin, acdebratedla'ver in Boston, 
and afterwards chief justice of New York, was de- 
scended from poor parents, and bred to a mechani- 
cal employment. But the misfortune of losing a 
limb, and a long confinement by sickness, led him 
to study. The powers of his mind were uncom- 
monly strong, and he had made some progress in 
scientifick researches before he determined to give 
himself a college education. He was without re- 
sources, without friends, and somewhat advanced 
in years, yet he knew human life enough to believe 
that every thing may be done by perseverance. He 
had also that opinion of himself, that he believed he 
should not only gain a subsistence by his learning, 
but make a shining figure among his contempora- 
ries. When he entered college he was admitted 
into one of the higher classes, was better informed 
as well as older than any of his classmates, and was 
graduated in 1737. His name is the lowest, because 
the students were then placed according to their 
parenlage. Upon leaving college, he entered Mr. 
Auchmuty's office, as a student of law. From that 

* His woi-ftsare, lis^litsofthe colonies stated and defended, 4 to. 
speech in favour of America, 1769 ; adminislvatioD of British 
colonies, 17 7-1. 



P R A 38y 

gentleman he derived great assistance, and he af- 
terwards married his daughter. At the bar he was 
distinguished for legal knowledge, and a philosophical 
arrangement of his ideas. He was also an able rea- 
soner in the house of representatives, where he was 
a member for Boston a number of years. His poli- 
ticks were in opposition to Shirley, and hence he 
was a favourite of Pownall. This also made him 
popular in Boston, where his splendid abilities might 
excite admiration, but would not have gained him 
votes. The inhabitants of that town could never 
love a man who had no complacency in his disposi- 
tion, nor urbanity in his manners ; a man v.ho 
emerged from low life to a high station, and de- 
spised those who formerly knew him, even those 
from whom he had received favours. When Pow- 
nall left the province, Pratt lost entirely the regard of 
the people. The merchants and mechanicks in the 
town were very indignant at his conduct in the 
general court in supporting a motion to send away 
the province ship. This ship, though owned 
by the government, was designed to protect the 
trade, and the merchants had subscribed liberally 
towards building her. Yet, in the midst of the war, 
it was proposed by Pownall's friends, that this shii> 
should leave the station, and the trade suffer mere- 
ly for his personal honour or safety. The clamour 
was so great, that the governour found it necessa- 
ry to take his passage in a private vessel. But the. 
spirit of the people was not suddenly calmed. A 
larger town meeting than ever had assembled at 
Faneuil hall, discovered their displeasure by leaving 
out Pratt and Tyng from the list of their represen- 
tatives. Pownall, however, remembered Mr. Pratt, 
and by his recommendation he was made chief jus- 
tice of New York. He died soon after this promo- 
tion. 

What talents judge Pratt possessed as ^fine writ- 
er we cannot learn from any publication with his 
name. The verses found in his study, and publish- 



S90 P R I 

ed in the Royal American magazine, April, 1774, 
discover a strong vigour of fancy. If these were 
his own compositions, he ought to have exercised 
a fine gepius for poetry. 

Prince Thomas, governour of the colony of 
Plymouth, was first elected into this office in the 
year 1634 ; afterwards, in 1638. When gov. Brad- 
ford died, in 1657, he was chosen to succeed him, 
and continued to be chosen as long as he lived. 
For many years he was one of the assistants, and 
commissioner to the united colonies. He was one 
of this respectable body when the disputes happen- 
ed between Massachusetts and the other colonies 
about the war with the Dutch, and joined heartily 
in the letter of reproof which the colony of Plymouth 
sent to our general court. Mr. Morton gives him 
the character *' of a very worthy, pious gentleman, 
capable of the office of government." He was a 
man of great integrity, a just man in private life, 
and so steady to his trust, as never to betray the 
publick confidence reposed in him. Douglass says, 
he had " strong natural powers, but no learning.'* 
He was a friend to learning and religion, whatever 
his own acquirements might be, according to the 
account we have *' that the most able men in the 
colony thought no method would be more effectual 
in preventing the churches being overwhelmed with 
ignorance, than the election of Mr. Prince to the 
office of governour ; and this point being gained, 
the adverse party from that time sunk into confu- 
sion."* He also procured revenues for the sup- 
port of grammar schools. It was this gentleman, 
with six others, who first settled the town of East- 
ham. He removed there, in 1644, and returned to 
Plymouth, when he was fixed in the chair of govern- 
ment. 

Gov. Prince died, March 29, 1673, in the 73d. 
year of his age. Having lived in New England 
from the year 1621. Morton'' s Memorial, Princess 
Annals^ ^V. csPc. 

* Historical collections} vol, viii. page 1 67. 



P R I 391 

Prince Thomas, was born at Middleborough, 
and graduated at Harvard College, 1707. He pass- 
ed several years in travelling, but with no particular 
object. He says, "that when he made reflections up- 
on that part of his life, he never could see with sat- 
isfaction the reasonableness and consistency of it." 
While he was in England he was invited to settle 
as a minister in several places, but his love to his 
native country induced him to return. He arrived 
at Boston in 1717, having been absent about seven 
years. He was ordained pastor of the Old South 
church, Oct. 1, 1718, and was one of the most 
learned and useful men of the age. He would de- 
serve this character if he had never published any 
thing but the chronology. 

The worth of this book was not known at the 
time he wrote it. He enlarged his method from 
what the proposals stated, and the first part of the 
work was so unacceptable to the publick, that he 
could not get subscribers to the second volume. 
He did, however, publish several numbers which 
bring the New England annals down to 1633, and 
which are so valuable for the precious documents 
they contain, that all who look into the affairs of their 
own country lament the work was not continued. 
Concerning this book one of the first men of that gen- 
eration, Mr. Callender writes, in a letter, dated New- 
port, April 4, 1739, " It gives me great concern, 
that Mr. Princess chronology has been so ill receiv- 
ed, 1 look on it as an honour to the country as 
well as to the author, and doubt not but posterity 
will do him justice. But that you will say is too 
late. Some of the very best books have had the 
same fate in other places and other ages. I need 
not tell you of Milton, Rawleigh, Sec. I wish for 
his sake he had taken less pains to serve an ungrate- 
ful and injudicious age, lest it should discourage 
his going on with his design. 1 hope it will not, 
and hope you will encourage him, for sooner or lat- 
er the country will see the advantage of his work 
and their obligation to him." 



.392 P R I 

That Mr. Prince was a great scholar is evident 
from the opinion given of him by the most learned 
men among us. Dr. Chauncy says, " he may be 
justly characterised as one of our great men, that 
his learning was very extensive, but that he was ve- 
ry credulous. He could easily be imposed upon. 
Another imperfection hurtful to him, wa,s a strange 
disposition to regard more the circumstances of 
things, and sometimes minute and trifling ones, 
than the things themselves." He says, from his 
own acquaintance with him, he could relate many 
instances of this ; yet with all these weaknesses he 
possessed intellectual powers far beyond what is 
common. 

As a preacher Mr. Prince was excellent, if we 
may judge from the sermons he published. It is 
said his d-elivery was bad. Objections have been 
made, that he frequently rendered his common dis- 
courses too learned for common people. He print- 
ed the discourse at his own ordination, which no 
ordinary man could write ; several funeral discour- 
ses, which are as remarkable for their pathetick effu- 
sions, as judicious observations, and are valuable on 
account of the information concerning the worthies 
of Boston, many of wliom belonged to that church ; 
the tnection sermon, 1730; several fast and thanks- 
giving sermons; and also published some philosophi- 
cal essays. His revisal of the New England psalms 
in metre discover his acquaintance with the oriental 
languages, but not any glow of fancy, nor the least 
glimmering of genius. A man may be a good his- 
torian and no poet. 

The friends of Mr. Prince observed his declining 
health with anxiety. The means used to restore it 
foiled, and he died, October 22, 1758.* 

• The father of Mr. Prince was Samuel Prince, esq. of Mid- 
lUeborougli, who was born in Boston, 1649, and died 1728, agecV 
80. He was justice of the peace for Plymouth county, and a ve- 
ry respectable man. His son wrote an account of the family with 
the chaiacler given in the New l:.ngland Journal, July 15, of that 
year. He tells us that he was tise fourth son of Mr. John Prince. 



PUT 393 

Prudden Peter, was minister of the church in 
Milford, Connecticut. He came with his church to 
New Haven, but removed to Milford. There he 
lived many years an example of piety, gravity and 
zeal, ai^ainst the evils of the times, which our pious 
ancestorscomplainedof, in thesame manner, as those 
who talk, about the ^reat degeneracy of the present 
age. He died, A. D. 1656, in the 56th year of his 
age. Dr. Mather says, " that his death was felt as a 
pillar, which made the whole fabrick to shake." 

Dr. Trumbull says, that his estate in this country 
was appraised at 924/. 18^ &d. He left a landed in- 
terest in Kngland, at Edgton, in Yorkshire, valued 
at 1300 pounds sterling, which is still enjoyed by 
some of his heirs. He had two sons. One of them, 
John Prudden, was graduated, after his father's de- 
cease, at Harvard College, in 1668. He settled in 
the ministry at Newark, in New Jersey. The other 
inherited the paternal estate. Their descendants 
are numerous in Connecticut and New Jersey. 

Putnam Israel, major general in the army of 
the United States, was born at Salem, Kssex coun- 
ty, Jan. 7. 1718. His parents were respectable, and 
his ancestors among the early settlers of Massaehu- 

ruling elder of the church in Hull, New England, who was the 
eldest son of the rev. John Prhice, rector of Kast Strafford, in 
Berkshire, RngUmd, in the reign of Junies and Charles I. Elder 
Prince came to Massachusetts when archbishop Laud persecuted 
the non-conformists. He was two or three years at the universi- 
ty of Oxford, but did not think himself sufficiently learned to en- 
ter into the ministry, and therefore applied himself to husbandry. 
He died, August 6, 1 676, in the 66th year of his age. His second 
wife was the dauglitei- of Thomas Hinckley, esq. govcrnour of 
Plymouth. She was the mother of the rev. Mr. Prince of Bos- 
ton, and of Nathan Prince, a distinguished character in our litera- 
ry annals. \ man of juperiour genius to his brother, and in niath- 
ematicks and natural philosophy superiour to any man in New 
England. He was fellow of Harvard College many years, and a 
candidate for the piofessor's chair. He wrote a book upon the 
laws and constitution of that seminary. Tliis was after he was 
dismissed from the government and instruction of the college oa 
account of his intemperate habits,\vhich 4esU'oy?d his useft^Jnes^; 
3 c 



394 PUT 

setts. In the year 1739, he removed from Salem to 
Pomfret, in Connecticut. He there applied him- 
self to husbandry, and, beinsj very industrious, with 
a firm constitution, acquired a good estate. In the 
French war, which commenced on our frontiers, in 
1755, Mr. Putnam had the command of a company 
in Lyman's regiment of provincials. He was high- 
ly distinguished at the head of a party of rangers, 
who were the most bold, active and enterprising 
men in the army. Amidst his hazardous undertak- 
ings, and valourous feats, he was taken prisoner, and 
suffered every hardship which Indians, in their 
sportive cruelty, could invent •, or in their savage 
passion execute. He returned to the army as soon 
as there was an exchange of prisoners In 1762, he 
was lieut. colonel of a regiment of provincials, which 
were sent to Cuba. After the city of Havannah 
was taken, he returned to New England, with a few 
of his regiment who had escaped the dangers which 
surrounded them. Some had fallen in battle, ma- 
ny fell a prey to the diseases of the climate. In 
1763 peace was proclaimed between the English 
and French nations; but the savages of the Ameri- 
can wilderness were not yet tamed. Gen. Brad- 
street was sent to the western frontiers, in 1764 ; 
col Putnam was with him, having the command of 
a regiment. The Indians were, however, brought 
into complete subjection without much fighting, 
and col. Putnam returned to the tranquillity of do- 
mestick life. Like other great characters we read 
of, he went from the field of battle to the plough. 

At the commencement of the revolutionary war, 
when the spirit of patriotism, like a fire bursting 
from its enclosures, spread over the country, the 
name and actions of Putnam were on every tongue. 
His soul was on fire upon the news of Lexington 
battle, and he immediately left all his private con- 
cerns for the field of action. It is impoisible to ex- 
press the confidence placed in him. He was equal 
tp a host. It was tlje language of many, that the 



PUT 595 

British troops would not dare to come out of Bos- 
ton, when they knew they would have such a hero 
to oppose. On the other hand the loyalists within 
the lines attempted to expose to ridicule those very 
things which excited the admiration of the patriots. 
They called him the *' wolf catcher," a mere In- 
dian hunter, who was hardly equal to command a 
company of grenadiers. They acknowledged his 
courage, and several of the higher officers of the ar- 
my, who had served with him, gave a just tribute to 
his other good qualities, as well as his valour. 

He commanded a wing of the army during seve- 
ral campaigns ; was an active, useful officer, more 
brave than prudent, and frequently wanted dignity 
in his style of conduct ; but always generous, hu- 
mane, the soldier's friend. It was unfortunate for 
the country, as well as himself, that he was taken off 
from all active service by a paralysis in the winter of 
1779. He lived, however, to enjoy the blessings of 
peace, to see his country in prosperity, his friends 
contented and happy. He died, May 29, 1790.* 

*" Amonpj the many worthy and meritorious characters with 
whom I have had the happiness tobecoiinected in the service through 
the course of the war, and from whose cheerful assistance in the 
various and trying vicissitudes of a complicated contest, the name 
of a Putn&m is not forgotten ; nor will it be but with that stroke of 
time which shall ohUterate from my mind the remembrance of 
all those toils and fatigues through which we have struggled for 
the preservation and establishment of the rights, liberties and in- 
dependence of our country." Ge?2. Washington's letter to gen. 
Putnam, J/iril 2, 1783. 

For this letter, and several facts we are indebted to col. Hum- 
phreys, late American minister to the court of Madrid. His life 
of Putnam is a very interesting piece of biography. It will be 
read with repealed pleasure. It would greatly increase our 
stock of information, if other gentlemen of sentiment and obser- 
vation would give memoirs of our revolutionary characters. Ma- 
ny incidents of the war would be mingled with the narrative of 
their lives. Many anecdotes also might be furnished by tliose 
who knew them, intimately, which we shall doubtIef.s lose, as 
those who relate them are dropping off the stage. We love to 
see men in all their various attitudes, whom wc admite fpr.ihe 
distinguishing Ceatures of their clijiracter. 



396 QUI 

Pynchon William, one of the first planters of 
Massachusetts, was a gentleman very respectable 
for his learning, as well as his piety. He laid the 
foundation of the town of Roxbury. With this 
company Mr. John Eliot preferred to settle, when the 
first church in Boston were very desirous to have him 
for their pastor. Many of them had been his friends 
and neighbours in England. In the year 1636 the 
settlements at Connecticut river began. Those who 
settled Windsor went from Dorchester. Mr. Pyn- 
chon, and those who went from Roxbury, settled 
higher up the river. The place was called Agawam, 
by the Indians, which doubtless means a river, in 
their language ; several other places wert so called. 
This was certainly the original name of Ipswich, 
Mr. Pynchon may be considered as the father of two 
principal towns in Massachusetts, Roxbury and 
Springfield. He lived to old age, and grew rich 
trading with the Indians. It is said, that some of 
his landed property is in the possession of his pos- 
terity to the present day. It is a fact, that the town 
of Springfield, had always had one of the name and 
family among their magistrates. A late appointment 
of a justice of peace, since Mr. Gore has been in the 
chair of government, is an evidence, that the family 
is still worthy of respect, as it always has been, if 
we view the line from their first ancestor. 

Pynchon John, who had been a magistrate 50 
years, died at Springfield, June 16, 1702. 

Pynchon Joseph, one of the descendants, was 
a magistrate for the county of Suffolk ; fur many 
years of his majesty's council, and died at Newtown, 
previous to the revolution. 

QuiNcY Edmund, agent for Massachusetts at 
the court of Great Britain, was born at Braintree, 
Oct. 21, 168 h He was descended from worthy 
ancestors, who were esteemed highly by the fathers 
of our country. The first Mr. Edmund Quincy 
was a member of the Boston church, wliich then in- 
cluded Braintree, in the year 1633. He died .at 



Q U I 397 

the age of thirty three. His son, EdmwidQuincy, 
married the dauj^hterof major general Gookin,a man 
of renown in that generation, and whose rrtemory is 
still precious. Mr. Q. was also distinguished by 
his honours and his virtue. He fixed his residence 
upon the spot now called Qaincy ; was lieut. col. 
of the Suffolk regiment, and a magistrate of the 
county. It was his desire, that his son, the subject 
of this article, might have every advantage of a lib- 
eral education, and he sent him to Harvard College, 
where he was graduated, 1699. The fiither died 
while the son was a student, in the month of Janu- 
ary, 1697. 

Deprived of his care at this tender age, the 
youth improved the opportunity he had to ac- 
quire knowledge. The example of an excellent 
father was before him, and his conduct manitested 
the influence of those sentiments with which his 
mind was early imbued. His mind was active, his 
genius brilliant, and he laid up wisdom for future 
years. He was soon honoured with the confidence 
of the publick, and he never frustrated the fond 
hopes of those who loved him, nor the expec- 
tations of those who had a high opinion of his ac- 
complishments. In the year 1713, he had a com- 
mission from gov. Dudley to be colonel of the first 
regiment, previously to which he had shown him- 
self to be a very active and skilful military officer. 
In 1718, he was appointed one of the judges of 
the superiour court, and he always maintained the 
dignity of this honourable bench by his excellent 
deportment, his attention to duty, his wisdom and 
integrity. In the legislature, he was a very eloquent 
and graceful speaker. He was chosen a represen- 
tative in 1713, 14 ; and one of his majesty's coun- 
cil the year succeeding. In the year 1733, be had 
an additional commission of justice through the 
province. '* He sought not these honours, but sev- 
eral of them he was solicited to accept," as v/e are 
assured by persons intimately acquainted with hin>. 



398 QUI 

In the year 1737, a serious controversy took place 
between Massachusetts and New Hampshire about 
settlings the boundary line. Commissioners were 
appointed by the crown to bring the dispute to a 
termination. Mr. Q. was one of the agents of this 
province, before the commissioners, and was after- 
wards chosen to represent the whole business be- 
fore the court of Great Britain. Hutchinson savs 
the Massachusetts were sure of their cause. *'l hey 
thought it safest, however, to send a special agent, 
who was joined with Mr. Wilks the former agent ; 
to whom was add«:'d Mr. Richard Partridge, whose 
chief merit was, that he was a relation of gov. Bel- 
cher. Mr. Q. died of the small pox, by inocula- 
tion, soon after his arrival in London, and the other 
two knew little or nothing of the controversy." Mr. 
Q's. death was on the 23d of Feb. 1737. 

The loss to the country was great, as he was one 
of the most useful and accomplished gentlemen in 
the province. He loved his country ; and understood 
the laws and constitution of this government equal 
to any man in it, and vvas very popular, as well a«6 
wise and judicious. " He walked in his upright- 
ness," says an affectionate friend, "and led us in 
the way to heaven by a shining example of piety and 
goodness. His memory ought to be always dear and 
precious with us, and his great name mentioned with 
peculiar honour in the annals of New England. Sem- 
per honos, nomenque tuum, laudesque mane- 
bunt."* Hancock'^s funeral sermon, Mss. penesme^ 

* The province were at the expence of the funeral, and the 
general court gave orders to erect a handsome monument in 
Bunhili Fields, London, with as elegant latin inscription englished 
as follows : 

Here are deposited the remains of Edmund Quincy, esq. native 
of Massrtciiuselts bay, in New England ; a gentleman of distin- 
goishtd piety, prudence and learning, who early merited praise 
for discharging with the greatest ability and improved integrity the 
various employments both in the civil and military affairs with 
which his country entrusted him : these especially as of>e of his 
snajesiy's council, a justice of the supreme court of judicature, 
and colonel of a regiment of foot The pubUck affairs of his coun- 



QUI sm 

QuiNCY Jo SI AH, Jan. an eminent lawyer, ora- 
tor, and patriot, was the son of Josiah Quincy, esq, 
merchant in Boston, who acquired a handsome for- 
tune in trade, and in his latter years retired to Briiin- 
tree, the seat of his ancestors. His son was born 
im Boston, 1743, entered Harvard College, 1759 ; 
where he was difetinguished for the vivacity of his 
genius, and his application to study. In 1763, he 
received the honours of that seminary. Three 
years after, when he proceeded master of arts, he 
pronounced an English oration, by which he obtain- 
ed great eclat. Except in one instance, there had 
been no English performance since the foundation 
of the college, and in no instance could an orator 
have been brought forward, to obtain more univer- 
sal applause. 

At the bar he discovered much legal information ; 
he was energetick, and fluent, and seldom failed 
of impressing his sentiments upon the jury in the 
most pointed and perspicuous manner. His politi- 
cal character, however, gave him the greatest claim 
to publick favour. As a friend to liberty the peo- 
ple regarded him with admiration bordering on en- 
thusiasm. Those who have heard him speak will 
never forget his voice and manner, when the great 
body of the people assembled in Faneuil Hall, or in 
the Old South meetinir house, to express their ab- 
horrence of the acts of the British parliament, and 
their determination to live and die like freemen. 
Mr. Q. had a tongue to speak, and a pen to write, 
which have not been exceeded in this country. The 
controversy between Great Britain and the colonies 
was the general topick of conversation. The reve- 
nue acts had been passed. The Boston port bill 

try so requiring, he embaiktd tlieir agent to the court of Great 
Britain in order to stcurt; their rights and privileges. 15eing seiz- 
ed with the small pox, he died a premature deuUi, and with him 
the advantages expected from the agency, with the greatest pros- 
pect of success. He departed the dcligiit of his own people but 
of none more than the senate, who, as a testimony of their lov€ 
and gratitude, have ordered tliis epitaph to be iiiscribed on hi*- 
rnonunKtnt. 



400 QUI 

soon after arrested the attention of the people, aixl 
Mr. Q. had a fine opportunity to display his tal'ents 
and patriotism. His publication, in 1774, entitled, 
*' Thoughts on the Boston port bill, &c. addressed to 
the freeholders and yeomanry of Massachusetts," 
was a seasonable work, fraught with much informa- 
tion, written with becoming energy, and it stimu- 
lated the body of the people to manly and decent 
exertions in defence of their natural and constitu- 
tional rights. He received an anonymous letter, 
May 17, 1774, from the British coffee house in Bos- 
ton, which warned him of the imminent danger of 
his life, and hazard of confiscation of his property. 
To which l>e made the following reply, in the Mas- 
sachusetts Gazette, No, 3685 : '* The dangers and 
MTongs of my country are equally apparent. In al). 
publick concerns 1 feel a sense of right and duty, 
that not only satisfies my conscience, but inspires 
my zeal. While I have this sentiment / shall per^ 
severe, till my understaixling is convinced of its er- 
ror. A consideration, that will not be warped by 
the arm of power, or the hand of an assassin. 
Threats of impending danger communicated by 
persons who conceal their name and character, ought 
never to deter from the path of duty ; but exciting 
contempt rather than fear, will determine a man of 
spirit to proceed with new vigour and energy in his 
publick conduct." 

The health of Mr. Q. had been sometime declin- 
ing. Amidst hisvigourousexertiojis for the publick 
good, he thought too little of himself. His friends, 
therefore, persuaded him to take a voyage across 
the Atlantick, which might also give him an oppor- 
tunity, from his own knowledge and experience, to 
explain many things to the friends of the colonies, 
and thus contribute to the service of his country. 
He embarked at Boston, Sept. 28, IV 74, and the very- 
day on which he arrived in the harbour of Cape Ann, 
April 27, 1775, he departed this life. His remains 
were interred in that town with every mark of re^ 



QUI 401 

spect. Few, however, compared with those'who 
felt the loss, could attend the funeral. The multi- 
tude of the people were his mourners. The death 
of such a man was a heavy stroke upon the com- 
munity, as well as his family, friends and acquain- 
tance. The effect it had upon various classes of people 
is still remembered. Many knew, or had heard of 
his patriotick zeal ; also, with what eloquence he had 
plead the cause of his country. A great deal was ex- 
pected from the communications he would make of 
what he had learned abroad. The news of his death, 
therefore, when a general gloom was spread over our 
publick affairs made every eye look down with con- 
cern, and every heart throb with sensations of grief. 
It was a subject of conversation, likewise, verv 
natuial, that two of the same family, two men of 
sterling eloquence, who had the love and confidence 
of the publick, should both die, when the country 
was waiting for their communications. High hopes 
seemed to be raised only to be blasted. *^ 

* The grandfather died in England ; the young gentleman be- 
fore he reached these western shores. 

In a letter from a gentleman of some distinction in the literary 
world is the following passage: " I think it worthy of observation, 
that the Quincy's have been friends to liberty and the rights of 
the people from the most ancient times. "When the English bar- 
ons made that noble stand in the beginning of the 13vh century, 
that obliged king John to grant the Magna Charta, sieur de Quin- 
cy was one of them. Although more than five centuries have 
rolled away since that great event, yet the spirit has not been lost, 
Josiah Quincy, esq. in the most trying times of our revolution, 
exerted his great abilities with success in favour of the rights of 
the people," &c. 

The family is certainly one of the most ancient in Massachu- 
setts : many have been distinguished in publick offices, several for 
their abilities, learning and patriotism. Two sons of judge Quin- 
cy, Edmund and Josiah, were magistrates in the county ot Suffolk. 
Josiah had a commission of colonel of the regiment. His 
three sons, Edmund, Samuel and Josiah, were men of letters. 
The youngest of the three made the greatest figure in life, and 
he died in the mjorning of his days. Edmund died abroad. He 
was a zealous whig, and a political writer in those times. Samuel 
was a poet, and an elegant writer in prose. His ppli 
tides were different from the rest of the family. He was ap. 
3 ^ 



402 RAN 

Randolph Edward, m the year 1676, was. 
sent over to inquire into the state of the colonies. 
He was an active and implacable adversary to 
New England. He brought with him copies of the 
petitions of Mason and Gorges relative to their pa- 
tent of New Hampshire, the limits of which inter- 
fered with the grants made to iMassachu setts. 

While he was in Boston, he represented tliat the 
province was refractory, and disobedient to the re- 
quisitions of the crown. He was zealous to pro- 
mote the cause ©f episcopacy, and to destroy the 
ISew England churches ^ and he was the principal 
instrument of depriving the inhabitants of Massa- 
chusetts of their charter privileges, the people a- 
gainst whom he had conceived a most violent an. 
tipathy. 

When the charter was taken away, and James IL 
succeeded to the crown, the king appointed a coun- 
cil to govern the province, of which Dudley was 
president, and Randolph was one named in the 
commission. The next year sir E. Andross ar- 
rived with a commission to be governour of New 
England. Randolph was a conspicuous character 
during his short administration ; and involved in 
his fate. How much the people were exasperated 
against him appears, by their refusing him bail when 
he applied, and when it was granted to others. The 
house of representatives, June 25, 1689> voted, 

pointed solicitor general when Jonathan Sewall, esq. who married 
his cousin, was attorney general. He left his country with the 
loyalists, and died in the West Indies, after the peace. 

The hon. John Qiiincy, esq. who was speaker of the house of 
representatives in 1737, and afterwards of his majesty's council, 
was a nephew of the celebrated judge Edmund Quincy. His son, 
Norton Quincy, esq. was chosen a counsellor in 1774, and was 
one of the eleven whom gov. Gage negatived. One of his daugh- 
ters married the rev. William Smith of Weymouth, a worthy 
divine, much beloved by those who knew him. The late presi* 
dent of the United States, his excellency John Adams, esq. mar- 
ried a daughter of Mr. Smith. 

The lady of the late gov. Hancock was also a grand-daughter 
of judge Quincy. 



RAW 403 

^' that Mr. E. Randolph is not bailable, he having 
broken a capital law of this colony in endeavouring 
and accomplishing the subversion of our govern- 
ment, and having been an evil counsellor." 

Mr. Randolph died in the West Indies. It was 
said, that he always retained his prejudices against 
the churches and people of Massachusetts. On the 
other hand the inhabitants of this province who once 
iield him in abhorrence, regarded him and his re- 
proaches with the utmost contempt. 

Ratcliffe Robert, was the first episcopal 
minister who ever formed a church in New Eng- 
land. The church was formed in the year 1686, 
though a house of worship vi^as not built for some 
years. It has since been called the king's chapel, or 
the first episcopal church, Tremont- street. Randolph 
says, *' the congregation consisted of 400 souls." 
He is not an authority, where his prejudices are 
concerned. This society grew respectable after the 
charter of William and Mary, being the place of 
resort of the crown officers. But when Ratcliffe was 
rector, they met in his house, or the library room 
in the town house. We hear nothing of Mr. Rat- 
cliffe after the year 1686. 

Rawson Edward, secretary of the colony above 
40 years, under the old charter, was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1653* He was a respectable cha- 
racter, as we may judge from his having this office 
so long, while there was an annual election. He 
was also appointed treasurer of the corporation for 
propagating the gospel. In this office, he did not 
give so much satisfaction as in the other. The pray- 
ing Indians complained to Ratcliffe and Randolph, 
that they could not get cloaths, &c. which were al- 
lowed them. Tlie letters also that came from England 
to the commissioners here, give some reproofs %yhich 
amount to a charge of negligence. He lost his of- 
fice of secretary when the government was changed, 
being succeeded by Randolph.and afterwards by Mr. 
Addington. Wg4o not learn from Mr, Hutchinson 



404 ROB 

when secretary Rawson died, nor has he even giv* 
en his name in his index. 

ReadJohn, a gentleman of very brilliant talents, 
of sterling integrity, a friend of the people, of the 
laws and government. For his superiour abilities 
he was considered as one of the greatest lawyers in 
this country. The succeeding generation indulged 
a pride in quoting his legal opinions, and his sayings, 
in common conversation. He died, at an advanced 
age, Feb. 7, 1749, having been graduated at Har- 
vard College at the commencement of 1697. 

He had served as a representative of this town for 
many years ; and afterwards was elected into the 
council. While he sat at that board, he was their 
Qracle, and was eminently useful to the country. 

Revel John, was one of the five original under- 
takers of these New England plantations. There 
are five who are thus distinguished by Mr. Prince. 
Their venerable names are Winthrop, Dudley, 
Johnson, Saltonstall and Revel. He was chosen as- 
sistant, October 20, 1629, 30, and was therefore the 
10th of this board. He returned to England, with 
Mr. William Vassal, the succeeding summer. 

Rob IE Thomas, fellow of Harvard College, 
was graduated, A. D. 1708 ; instructed a class from 
1714 to 1723; he then studied physick. He was 
eminent as a mathematician, and a handsome writer ; 
specimens of his scientifick abilities, and his n-kan- 
ner of composing, may be found scattered in the 
magazines and newspapers during 20 years of the 
18th century, particularly a letter to the publick, 
concerning a very remarkable eclipse of the sun, 
Nov. 27, 1722. He also published a theological 
treatise, or a discourse upon " the knowledge of 
Christ superiour to all other knowledge." It was 
delivered in the college chapel to the students, 
and dedicated to president Leverett. 

Robinson John, pastor of the English church 
at Leyden, will be had in everlasting remembrance. 
Though he never set his foot on this American 



ROB 405 

strand, yet it was his determination to follow his 
fiock into 'this wilderness; and the planters of 
New Plymouth looked up to him, as the father 
and friend of the colony. He had a name to live, 
if tlvese regions had never been settled. His abil- 
ities, accomplishments and sufferings give him a 
claim to distinction with the worthies of the christian 
church, but it is as the pastor of the Leyden church 
that he becomes the object of our biographical 
notice. When he first separated from the church 
of England, he was reckoned a Brownist, and hence 
the first planters of New Plymouth have been called 
Brownists, by European historians, in which they 
have been imitated by American writers who ought 
to know better, or seek accounts from the right 
sources of information. Mr, R. was early in life 
among the straitest sect of them who were called 
puritans. But with a mind open to conviction he 
altered his sentiments when the celebrated Amesius 
controverted his opinion. He was ready to embrace 
the truth of the gospel in its simplicity. Decked 
in all the meritricious ornaments of the episcopal 
churches, he lost sight of her beauties, and would 
not allow the church of England could b.c a true 
church. But afterwards he allowed, that many 
churches were founded on the apostles' doctrine and 
fellowship, which only needed greater purity in 
their forms of worship. The church of Leyden, so 
far from being Brownists, were considered by that 
sect as inimical to them. Gov. Winslow, a princi- 
pal member of Mr. Robinson's church, says, " The 
Brownists in Holland would not hold communion 
with the church at Leyden. The rev. Mr. Prince, 
whose account of the Plymouth settlers is very ac- 
curate, quotes a passage from Bailie, the bitter enemy 
of rigid separatists, which says, that Mr. Robinson 
was a man of excellent parts, and the most learned, 
polished and modest spirit that ever separated from 
the church of England ; that the apologies he wrote 
were very handsome ; that by Dr. Ames and Mr. 



406 ROB 

Parker he was brought to a greater moderation thait 
he at first expressed ; that he ruined the rigid separ- 
ation, allowing the lawfulness of communing with 
the church of England in the word and prayer, 
though not in the sacraments and discipline.'* 

It would have been happy for Plymouth church 
if Mr. R. had come over. Elder Brewster would 
never take the office. The gifted brethren gained 
so much influence, as to make every preacher's sit- 
uation uneasy. If he had not the ready talent of ex- 
plaining the scriptures, he was put down as a man 
of low gifts ; if he were superiour, he found his tal- 
ents in more demand in Massachusetts. Our old 
historians give this account of the church at Ply- 
mauth, and since that day many instances confirm 
their opinion, that whenever parishes are long with> 
out a minister, they find it more difficult to settle one. 
In expectation of Mr. Robinson's coming over the 
church grew and flourished ; but when these expec- 
tations of seeing him were most highly raised, they 
heard the sad news of his death, 1625. "It has pleased 
the Lord to take out of this vale of tears, your and 
our loving pastor, Mr. Robinson. He fell sick, Sat- 
urday morning, Feb. 22, next day taught us twice, 
on the week grew weaker every day, feeling little or 
no sensible pain to the last. Departed this life, the 
1st of March. Had a continual ague. All his 
friends came freely to him. And if prayers, tears 
or means could have saved his life, he had not gone 
hence. We will still hold close in peace, wishing 
that you and we were together,"* &c. 

The parting address of Mr. Robinson, when his 
people embarked for this new region, has been fre- 
quently printed and quoted, and no speech ever dis- 
covered more candour and excellent spirit. It 
shows a mind above vulgar prejudices, the dignity 
of reason, and the meekness of a christian. "Words, 
say s Mr. Prince, almost astonishing in that age of low 
and universal bigotry, which then prevailed in the 

• Letter from Leyden> quoted by Mr. Prince. 



R O G 407 

English nation ; wherein this greet and learned man 
seems to be almost the only divine, who was capa- 
ble of rising into a noble freedom of thinking and 
practising in religious niatters, and even urging 
such an equal liberty on his own people. He la- 
bours to take them off from their attachment to him, 
that they might be more entirely free to search and 
follow the scriptures.** 

Rogers Ezekiel, was born in England, 1590. 
He was the son of Richard Rogers, an author of 
some repute, who wrote a book entitled, the seven 
treatises, which passed through several editions in 
London, and has been read a great deal in New 
England. Ezekiel came to this country in 1638, 
with a number of people from Yorkshire. He was 
urged to go with them to New Haven ; but he chose 
a pleasant spot in the county of Essex, where he 
Gould enjoy the society of Mr. Nathaniel Rogers, 
the first minister of the church in Ipswich. It was 
called Rowley, because he was minister of Rowley 
in Great Britain. He preached the election sermon 
in 1643. The first twelve years of his ministry 
were attended with great success. He was in la- 
bours more abundant, so that a young man was settled 
with him as a colleague. This caused jealousies and 
divisions in the parish, and his life was unhappy. He 
also met with domestick affliction. He buried two 
wives and all his children ; his house and furniture 
were consumed by fire ; he lost the use of his right 
arm, and was obliged to learn to write with his left 
hand, after he was advanced in years. 

Though sometimes cast down by the discourage- 
ments of the world he was, however, patient under 
many tribulations. He believed that, after making 
the voyage of life over a troubled sea, he should 
reach the haven of eternal rest. His last sickness 
was of a lingering nature, and he died, Jan. 22, 1668, 
in the 79th year of his age. 

Rogers Nathaniel, was the second son of 
John Rogers, o£ Dedham, and born in 15^8. He 



4Q8 R O G 

was educated at Emanuel College, Cambridge, and 
settled with Dr. Barkam, in a parish called Book- 
ing, in Essex county. He had no scruples about 
conforming to the forms and ceremonies of the 
church of England till he became acquainted with 
Mr. Hooker, and he then began to show his dissat- 
isfaction, by leaving off the surplice, which gave of- 
fence to the rector, and occasioned a removal. Af- 
ter this the bishop of Norwich suffered him to live 
quietly, and preach at Assingtoji, where he contin- 
ued five years. Re obtained great celebrity as a 
preacher with the most wi«e and judicious people. 
Though he had not the loud voice of his fatlier, yet 
he was a lively, florid and animated speaker. He 
came to New England in the year 1636 in the same 
ship with Mr. Partritlge, and was invited to settle 
with the church at Dorchester ; but for the sake of 
those who came with him, and could be accommo- 
dated better at Ipswich, he preferred that place, and 
was ordained Feb. 20, 1638. His ordination ser- 
mon was 2. Cor. ii. 16. "A sermon so copious, 
judicious, accurate and elegant,'* says Dr. Mather, 
*' that it struck the hearers with admiration." He 
gives also, a very particular account of his preach- 
kig upon certain parts of the scriptures, to the ac- 
ceptation of the people, but says, that he printed 
none of his discourses. One reason was, that his 
disposition to be accurate was such, as would injure 
his health. He was also a remarkably modest man, 
though one of the greatest men in his profession. 
*• He might be compared with the very best of the 
true ministers, which made the best days of New 
England." The biographer says, he was equal to 
Norton in his greatest excellencies. Such a man, 
though worthy of respect, is not always sure of it. 
The ivild notes of illiterate preachers are frequently 
read, vvhile the best compositions are neglected. 
Mr. Rogers suffered many trials. He was subject 
to hypochondriack complaints, and was often a prey- 
to melancholv humours. At the time Mr. Norton 



R O G 40^ 

was called from Ipswich to Boston, he was much af- 
flicted, and he gave displeasure to others. He did 
not live long afterwards, though he grew better of 
his bodily complaints. In 1655, an epidemic cough 
prevailed in the countr3^ He had the complaint ; but 
with no symptoms of danger, till the morning previ- 
ous to his death. He then blessed his family, spake 
cheerfully of heavenly things, and when he had utter- 
ed these words, as his last, " My times are in thine 
hands," died in peace, July 3d, in the afternoon.* 

Dr. Mather says, that although no composures of 
this worthy man came from the press, except a let- 
ter, which he wrote in 1643, to a member of the 
house of commons, *' concerning reformation ;" 
yet he had in his hands, a manuscript, written in a 
neat latin style, whereof he was an incomparable, 
master. It is entitled, " a vindication of the con- 
gregational church government." From the speci- 
men given in the Magnalia, it must be a desidera- 
tum to obtain the whole. 

Rogers John, president of Harvard College, 
son of the rev. N. Rogers of Ipswich, was born in 
England, before his father left Assington, and came 
over with him to America. He was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1649, and was, for some time, a 
preacher of the gospel ; but he either did not meet 
with success in the ministry, or was more attached 
to the theory and practice of physick ; for he left one 
profession for the other. 

He is described as a man of piety and excellent 
temper. " So sweet was his disposition that the ti- 
tle of deliciee humani generis might have been given 
him, and his real piety, set oif with the accomplish- 
ments of a gentleman, was like a gem set in gold." 
He was chosen to succeed Mr, Oakes, as president 

• In 1655, a distemper went through the plantations of New- 
England like to that in 1 647. It was so epidemical that tew were 
able to visit their friends at any distance to perform the last offi- 
ces to "them. It was attended with a faint cough. Mr. N, Rosers 
minister of Ipswich died of it, July 2d. Kudbinton. 
3 £ 



410 . ROG 

of the colleire, and installed, August 12, 1683, 
The next year he died, July 2d, the day after com- 
mencement. 

An epitaph was engraved on his tomb, written by 
one of the students, supposed to be Dr. Cotton 
Mather. It is no very elegant specimen of classi- 
cal style. 

RoG-RS Nathaniel, pastor of the church in 
Portsmouth, wasthe son of president Rogers, and was 
educated at Harvard College, 1687, and ordained, 
May 3d, 1699. He was a very pious minister, a 
strict disciple of the Geneva school, had a very 
agreeable manner of preaching, and was very ele- 
gant in his person and deportment. "With all his 
wisdom and affability he could not prevent a divi- 
sion in the parish which arose upon building the 
new meeting house.* The majority moved from 
the old spot to the north section of the town, and 
have preserved the name of the first church to the 
present time. The inhabitants of the south end 
were filled with resentment at their conduct. They 
organized themselves as a distinct society. In this 
they acted with the advice and assistance of Dr. 
Mather of Boston. An ecclesiastical council was 
called, which only widened their dfference. Mr. 
Rogers was much disgusted with the conduct of 
the ministers, who gave their advice to the people 
of the old church. Dr. Mather, on the other hand, 
blamed Mr. Rogers, and wondered how so good a 
man could discover so much ill humour. The re- 
sult of the council is not exactly known ; but the 
most just inference to be drawn per mss. handed 
down, is, that the societies separated, and did not 
walk in love " till that generation dropped off the 
stage. Mr. Rogers died, October 3d, 1723. The 
inscription on his monument was written by a gen- 
tleman of classical purity and taste. It is preserv- 
ed in the collections of the Massachusetts Histori- 
cal Society. He left a number of children. 

* See AJden's account of Portsmouth. 



ROG 411 

The oldest was the hon. Nathaniel Rogers, esq. 
father of the present judge Rogers of Kxeter, 
His youngest son was the hon. Daniel Rogers, 
esq. who for a number of years was one of the 
king's eouncil, when New Hampshire was a royal 
government. He resigned this honourable station 
on account of the acts of the British parliament, 
which prepared this country for the revolution. He 
was a whig in principle, a man of a strong mind, ex- 
tensive reading, and strongly attached to the prin- 
ciples of our fathers. His lady was the daughter of 
the hon. John Ringe, agent at the court of Great 
Britain, a sister of Mrs. Wentworth, the mother of 
sir John Wentworth, governour of Nova Scotia. 

Rogers John, minister of the church in Ipswich, 
was the son of president Rogers. He was grad- 
uated at Harvard College, in 1684, and a few years 
after he received academical honours, he was or- 
dained pastor of the church, where he continued his 
publick labours fifty »ix years. He died Decem- 
ber 28, 1745, in the eightieth year of his age. An 
eminent divine, Mr. Wiggles worth, of the same 
town, preached his funeral sermon, and thus delin- 
ates his character : " As to natural endownients, 
he was blessed with a clear apprehension and sound 
judgment ; was of a thoughtful and inquisitive 
temper of mind ; in the diligent improvement 
of which advantages, through the blessing of 
God, he acquired much valuable knowledge ; es- 
pecially much of that knowledge the lips are to 
keep, and the pastors after God's own heart to feed 
his flock with. His private conversation was edi- 
f3'ing aud pleasant. He had a conspicuous degree 
of prudence, ■which is so necessary to the well 
managing and administering the affairs of Christ's 
household. He was robust, useful and active in 
old age, being enabled to labour in word and doc- 
trine to the last, and quit the stage in action." 

Rogers Nathanikl, son of the rev. John 
Rogers, was settled as his colleague in the minis- 



412 ROG 

try. He was graduated in the year 1724^ and died 
in May, 1775, having been in the pastoral office 
near fifty years. Concerning this venerable man, 
as one speaks who was well acquainted with him, 
it is hard to say, whether the great or good was his 
predominant character. But it must be admitted 
by all, that there was in him an uncommon measure 
and a rare combination of both. He had a very 
discerning mind, and was blest with advantages for 
acquaintance with men and things. He exhibited 
generally something superiour in turn of thought 
and manner of conversation. He could be enter- 
taining and instructive, so that young men took 
great pleasure in his company. The great things 
pf the gospel were to be sure his favourite sub* 
jects. As a preacher he avoided vain philosophy, 
•and subtle disputings. When his heart was most 
moved, there appeared an energy of address, which 
is rarely to be met with. 

In his latter days he was taken off from his la- 
bours, and his mental faculties impaired ; but there 
were lucid intervals when he conversed like him- 
self. The people of his charge, and the neighbour- 
ing churches, lamented his departure with expres= 
sions of condolence, that were lively and expres- 
sive.* Dr. Dana's mss. 

* The church of Ipswich was supplied with a pastor by the 
name of Rogers above 100 years. The first Mr, R was with 
them about 17 years ; Mr. J. Rogers 56 ; and Nathaniel between 
40 and 50. The family descended from Mr. J. Rogers, wh6 
was a martyr to the cause of the reformation. He was burnt 
at Smithfield, 1555. Mr. Rogers of Dedham was his grand- 
son, whose son Nathaniel came over to New England. The 
branches of the family are numerous. No one name has been 
more conspicuous among the divines of Massachusetts. There 
are preachers in succession for a number of generations. 
Several have been famous beside those we have mentioned. 
Mr. Rogers, of Littleton, who was graduated in 1725, with 
whom the compiler of this work once served as an assistant, 
possessed very superiour talents, was a very rational and learned 
divine, a man of scicntifick i-csearches, and a complete gentle- 
man in his manners. He died Nov. 25, 1782. 

There is nothing publisheti with his name, and it is something; 



SAL 413 

RossiTER Edward, cartie from the west of En- 
gland, and was chosen one of the assistants for the 
government of Massachusetts. October 20, 1629, 
and died October 23, of the succeeding year. He 
was grave and pious, and possessed considerable 
property. His death was felt as a loss to the colo- 
ny, as we learn from Dudley's letter to the countess 
of Lincoln. He was present at the court of assist- 
ants held at Charlestown, Sept. 28, when 50/ was 
to be levied for a military purpose. This was the 
third session held at Charlestown, although the ma- 
jority of the people dwelt on the south side ; for 
Boston was taxed 11/. and Charlestown 7/. 

Saltonstall sir Richard, one of the fathers 
of Massachusetts colony, was the son of sir R. Sal- 
tonstall, who was lord mayor of London, in 1597. 
He was the first associate of the six original paten- 
tees mentioned in the charter of Charles L March 
4, 1628, and the fourth assistant named therein. 
He came over their first assistant, as appears from 
a record in Prince's annals, who tells us the first 
general court met at Boston, Oct. 30, 1630. Pres- 
ent, the governour, deputy governour, secretary, 
R. Saltonstall, Mr. Ludlow, Capt. Endicot, Mr. 
Nowell, Pynchon, Bradstreet. He was a worthy 
puritan, the first founder of the church at Water- 
town, and a great friend to the plantation. He stay- 
ed only a short time in New England ; but his heart 
was engaged in their interest. Two of his sons 
came over here afterwards, and his posterity have 
made a respectable figure even to the present time. 
He died in England, about the year 1658, and in 
his wi// left a legacy to Harvard College. 

remarkable that none of the name liave appeared as authors, 
though so many of them have bi;cn celebrated for their abilities, 
as well as pulpit talents. In 1706, the rev. J. Hor^-cis of Ipswich, 
preached the election sermon. '1 his, and one or two occasional 
sermons of his son, and three sermons by Mr. R. ol Leominster. 
arc the only publications we iiave met with of the name in N'ew 
England. 



414 SAL 

Salton STALL RiCHARD, csq. SOU to the worthy 
knight of the same name, came over here in the 
year 1635, and was chosen one of the assistants in 
1637. He continued a number of years to help on 
the affairs of this little commonwealth. Johnson 
says, that father and son ought to be remembered^ 
and celebrates their worth with some of his poeti- 
cal effusions. If the lines would not immortalize 
their deeds, or the genius of the writer, they have 
the New England spirit to recommend them : 

" His father goti: young Richard on, here valiantly doth war, 
For Christ his truth, to their great Ruth, heathens opposed are " 

Accrding' to Mr. Hutchhison, Mr. SaltonstaU 
continued in the magistracy till the year 1680, ex- 
cept the time he was in England. He had made a 
vow, when he first came over, that he never would 
leave the country, while the ordinances continued in 
their purity. His wife was very sick, and advice 
was given by the physician, that she should take a 
vovacre to Ensrland. He consulted Mr. Cotton 
whether it would be breaking his vow, if he went. 
He decided that it would not, because the marriage 
vow was the most binding M. C. was doubtless 
a greater divine than a casuist ! In 1672, Mr. S. 
again went to England, and made a present to Wha- 
ley and Goffe of 50/. before he sailed, which they 
acknowledged in their mss. We suppose this to be 
the Mr. SaltonstaU, mentioned by gov. Winthrop, 
who wrote a book in 1642, "again^t the standing 
council," which was censured by the court, and an- 
swered by Mr. Norris of Salem. This gentleman 
returned to Boston in 1680, and was again chosen 
the first assistant, and also two years succeeding. 
In 1683, he went back to England, and died at 
Hulme, April 29, 1694. He was a relation to tlie 
i'amous J. Hampden, was opposite to the court, and 
attached to the principles of New England govern- 
ment and churches.* 

*""The first form of their government, was that of governour, 
^leputy govji nour, and assistants ; the patentees with their heirss, 



SAL 415 

Saltonstall Henry, grandsonof sir Richard, 
was in the first class of graduates of Harvard Col- 
lege. He received a desi;ree of doctor of medicine 
from Oxford, and was fellow of New College in 
that university. 

Saltonstall Nathaniel, grandson of sir 
Richard, was graduated at Harvard College, 1659, 
chosen assistant 1679, under the old charter, and 
was appointed one of the council of which Dudley 
was president in 1686. He refused to serve, be- 
cause he had taken the oath as assistant. He vvas a 
firm friend to the old charter, hence his name is en- 
rolled among those whom Randolph marked in his 
letters, and who were called a faction by that spy of 
the British court. We read also that in August, 
1680, the deputy governour, Mr. Saltonstall, Novv- 
el, &c. sailed from Boston with 60 soldiers in a ship 
and sloop, to still the people at Casco Bay, and pre- 
vent Andross's usurpation. 

Mr. Saltonstall was appointed one of his majes- 
ty's council in the charter of William and Mary. 
He left tw^o sons, Nathaniel and Gurdon, who made 
a figure in publick life. 

Saltonstall Gurdon, governour of Connec- 
ticut, was the great grandson of sir Richard Salton- 
stall, first assistant of Massachusetts, and son of 
Nathaniel, one of his majesty's council. He dis- 
covered genius and an excellent mind, and was sent 
to the seminary where his father was graduated, to 
complete his education. He received the honours^ 
of Harvard College, 1684. Having a mind dispos- 
ed unto serious things, he made divinity his study, 

assigns and associates, being freemen, &c. But, in this general 
court, tliey agrted on a 2d form as follows : The freemen to 
have tlie power of clioosing assistants, wlien they are to be clcs-* 
en ; and the assistants from among themselves to clu)ose the gov- 
ernor and deputy governour, who with the assistants were to have 
the power of making laws, and choosing ofliccrs to execute the 
same This was fully assented to by the voice of tlie people. A 
list of freemen amounting to 108, desired to be made freemen, 
Samuel Mavevicke; Edward Johnson, S;c. 



416 SAL 

became a very accomplished preacher, and was or- 
dained pastor of the church at New London, 169L 
In this conspicuous orb he shone with a most en- 
gaging lustre. He did good to the souls of men, 
and was frequently consulted by the magistrates of 
Connecticut upon their most important affairs. He 
was an oracle of wisdom to literary men of all pro- 
fessions. Upon the death of Fitz John Winthrop, 
esq. in 1707, iMr. Saltonstall was elected gover- 
nour of the state. So great was the respect of the 
people for him, " that the assembly repealed the law 
which required that the governour should be chos- 
en from among the magistrates in nomination, and 
gave liberty to the people to elect him from them- 
selves at large." A letter was addressed to him by 
the assembly, requesting him to accept the trust ; 
another was addressed to the church and society, 
begging them to give their consent that he should 
leave the pastoral office. They gratified the wish- 
es of the colony. The first of January, 1708, gov. 
Saltonstall accepted the office, and took the oaths 
appointed by law. He was elected by the freemen 
the succeeding year. In 1709, chosen agent to the 
court of Great Britain to present an address to his 
majesty, *' praying for an armament to reduce the 
French in N. America to her majesty's obedience," 
&c. The governour did not accept of the appoint- 
ment. The assistance was granted, and several ex- 
peditions carried on against Port Royal and Cana= 
da, as we read in the chronicles of those years. 
Gov. Saltonstall was continued in office as long as he 
lived, maintained the dignity of his station, and was 
accepted by the multitude of his brethren. He di- 
ed. Sept, 20, 1724, aged 59, leaving a widow, who 
has been celebrated in New England for her fine 
accomplishments, and munificence to literary and 
pious societies, and her charity to the poor.^ The 
governour is also reckoned among the benefactors 
of Harvard College, 

f The character of Madame Saltonstall, in the New Englainl 



SEW 417 

Sew ALL Samuel, chief justice of Massachu- 
setts Bay, was the son of Henry Sewall who" came 
into this country in 1634, and made a plantation in 
Newbury. His father soon followed, whose name 
was also Henry : he was the son of Henry Sewall, 
esq. a linen draper of Coventry in Great Britain. 
That gentleman possessed an ample fortune, and 
was mayor of the city. The father of Judge Sewall 

journaljan. 26, 1729,30, I suppose to be drawn by Mr. Prince : It 
carries intrinsic marks of his pen ; and the lady attended his minis- 
try. She descended I'rom the rev. William Whittingham. a fa- 
mous puritan, who, in the reign of queen Mary I. left an estate 
in hngland worth 1 100 a year sterling, and fled to Geneva to 
preserve liis conscience and religion. There he gathered a 
church in the congregational way, which seems to be the first 
instance of it in tliese latter ages, and was chosen their pastor. 
Upon queen Elizabeth's accession, he returned to Ln4;;land, and 
was created dean of Durham, and assisted Mr. Sternhold in the 
old England version of the psalms of Dayid, being the author of 
those composures prefixed with W. \V, and compiled such a trea- 
tise against the ecclesiastical constitutions, as the learned Mr. 
Lee used to say never was, and never could be answered His 
estate chiefly lay at Southerton about 6 miles south of Boston in 
I..incolnshire. His only son Baruch was the principal builder of 
the church there, having his name distinguished in almost every 
window, to be seen many years after. He designed to visit New 
England, but was taken sick and died. His widow came over and 
had a son, wlx) was the heir of the fantvily, named John. He mar- 
ried a daughter of the rev. William Hubbard of Ipswich, and 
lived and died in the town. He left three sons, John and Rich- 
ard, who went to England, and died there unmarried. The third 
son was named William, and he was the father of Madame SaU 
tonstall. He took his degree at Harvard College, 1660. and set- 
tled at Boston, married a daughter of John Lawrence, (formerly 
of Ipswich, afterwards alderman of the city of New York) applied 
himself to merchandize, and going over to London, to take care 
of the estate falling to him, died of the small pox. He left five 
children, 1. Richard, who took his degree at Harvard Collejje in 
1689. 2. William, a merchant, who went to the West Indies, 
and died. 3. Mary, Mrs. Salstonstall. 4. Elizabeth, wife of the 
hon. S. Appleton of Ipswich. 5. Martha, married to rev. John 
Rogers of the same town. Mary, now deceased, first married 
William Clark, esq. merchant of Boston, in 1683. He died iu 
1710. She was then married to gov. Saltonstall, and upon hii 
death returned to Boston. As for her character, she was univer- 
sally knowii to be a gentlewoman of bright intellectual powers, 
and to have made a good improvement oflhem. Fullofspicitj 

3 F 



418 SEW 

married the daughter of Mr. Stephen Dummer. 
They were members of the first church in Newbu- 
ry, where Messrs. Parker and Noyes officiated. Mr. 
Dummer being in a poor state of health, they all 
returned to England. They dwelt at Warwick, and 
then removed to Bishop Stoke, in Hampshire. In 
this place Mr. Sewall lived some time. His eldest 
son Samuel was born, March28, 1652, and was bap- 
tised the Sunday following in Stoke church, by Mr. 
Rashly, who w^as once a member of the old church 
in Boston ; then went to P^ngland ; was one of the 
subscribers to the truths of the gospel, 1648, with 
the Lontlon ministers, and ejected by the Bartholo- 
mew act, in 1662. 

In the year 1661, Mr. Sewall returned to New 
England, with his family. The subject of this arti- 
cle was 9 years old. He was sent to the school of 
Mr. Parker, and made great proficiency for one of 
his age. He was admitted a student of Harvard 
College, in August, 1667, and received his first de- 
gree from the hands of president Chauncy ; the de- 
gree of master of arts he received, from president 
Hoar, in 1674. He was fellow of Harvard College 
a number of years, and his name is recorded with 
the benefactors of that seminary. In 1684, his 
name is among the magistrates of the colony. For 
several years succeeding, all was confusion and dis- 
order in Massachusetts, Mr. S. went to England 

inuch inclined to reading, and the most instructive company. At 
the head of the neighbouring colony, she shone in every accom- 
plishment and virtue that became her exalted station. And wher- 
ever she went, she was admired for her superiour knowledge, wit, 
good sense and wisdom. Above all was adorned with exemplary 
pietv. Before gov. S. died, she gave 100 pounds a piece to the 
two New England Colleg-es, and by her will 1000 pounds more to 
this at Cambridge, to be appropriated to two students of bright 
parts, sober lives, designed for the ministry. She has also left a 
very large silver bason to the south church in Boston, of which 
she had been a long while a great ornament ; ten pounds to each 
pastor, and a hundred pounds to the poor of the town, besides sev- 
eral other noble bequeathments and legacies to others j and her 
will was ajl written by her own hand. 



SEW 419 

in 1688, the year of the glorious revolution. He 
very soon returned to America. He was one of the 
first counsellors after the charter of William and 
Mary, and continued to be chosen till 1728, when 
he resigned, having outlived all who were first ap- 
pointed with himself. In 1692, he was appointed 
judge of the superiour court, and, in 1718, promot- 
ed to the place of chief justice. He resigned his seat 
upon the bench in 1728, and also his office as judge 
of probate, to which he was appointed in 1715. His 
character is delineated by Mr. Prince in a funeral 
sermon, who says, that " he was universally reverenc- 
ed and esteemed and beloved for his eminent pie- 
ty, learning and wisdom ; and that he was one of 
the most shining lights and honours of the age and 
land where he lived, and worthy of a very distin- 
guishing regard in the New England histories." 

He printed a work which has been much read in 
this country, though now the copies are scarce : 
*' Some outlines towards a description of the new 
heavens and new earth," 4tG. A 2d edition of 
which was printed in 1727. 

Sewall Stephen, brother of judge Sewall was 
one of the worthies of that generation. He was 
universally respected by his acquaintance for his 
excellent generous temper, and obliging manners ; 
and by all his fellow citizens for his prudence, 
knowledge and patriotism. He had a good school 
education, and entered college ; but was unable to 
stay the years necessary for obtaining a degree. He 
always indulged an attachment to this seat of the 
muses, and mingled with the friends of virtue and 
literature. The ministers of religion lost a very 
particular friend when he bid adieu to these earthly 
mansions. While he lived, he was useful, as well 
as amiable. He was employed in several publick 
offices, in the county of Essex. He was clerk of 
the court, and register ot the county, which places 
he filled with the approbation of all his constituents. 
In 1682, he married the daughter of the rev. Mr. 



420 SEW 

Mitchel of Cambridge, and they were blessed with 
17 children ; the larger number of these survived 
their parents. The good man died in Salem, Octo- 
ber, 1725, and was buried the 21st day of this 
month with peculiar honours. The guns of the 
fort of which he was commander were discharged ; 
alfio many through the town, by order of col. Brown, 
who then commanded the Essex regiment. A great 
concourse of people, with the magistrates and min- 
isters of the neighbouring towns attended, and every 
mark of esteem and regard was manifested ; for all 
that knew him, lamented his death. 

Sewall Stephen, son of Stephen Sewall, esq. 
was born in Salem, in December, 1702. He was 
graduated at Harvard College, 1721, and then 
took the charge of a school at Marblehead. The 
office of a grammar master ought to be account- 
ed honourable. It is the most useful employ- 
ment, and some of the greatest men in this coun- 
try have thus begun their publick course. Mr, 
Sewall was chosen tutor in 1628, and continued in 
that office till the year 1739, when he was elevated 
to a seat on the bench of judges. His character was 
very eminent as a scholar. Dr. Chauncy, who was 
his classmate, and whose judgment none will dispute, 
speaks of him, as a man of first rate talents. *' Quick- 
ness of apprehension," says he, " and a capacity to 
look thoroughly into a subject, were united to him in 
the highest degree I ever saw in any of my acquain- 
tance. One could scarcely begin to mention a train 
of thought, but he would at once perceive the whole 
of what was going to be said ; and if it was a dis- 
putable point, had in readiness what was proper to 
be said in answer." He studied divinity, and was 
an excellent preacher, but did not incline to settle 
in the ministry. Having turned his attention to 
law, his wisdom and knowledge were so conspicu- 
ous, that he was recommended by the first gentle- 
men of the profession, as the most proper person for 
;i vacant place of the superiour court. Judge Dud- 



SEW 421 

ley was then chief justice ; and, upon his death, he 
was appointed his successor, though he was not the 
senior of the surviving judges. Mis reputation was 
high when he first went upon the bench, but in this 
superiour station he gained more applause. " He 
preserved a great decorum in the court. He mod- 
erated the debates with a becoming calmness and 
dignity, in conjunction with a strict impartiality ; 
shewing himself at once the man of honour and spir- 
it, the knowing lawyer, and upright judge."* 

This great and good man was taken off in the 
midst of his usefulness. The powers of his mind 
were in full vigour ; as a judge, he was held in ad- 
miration, and one of the most learned and useful 
members of his majesty's council. To this office 
he was elected when he was cliief justice. He 
would have been chosen some years before, but 
could not be persuaded to accept the place. He 
departed this life, Sept. 10, 1760, aged 58. 

No one's death ever excited a more general sym- 
pathy. He was as much beloved for his good qual- 
ities, as admired for his superiour wisdom. His 
polite and elegant manners gave a charm to the 
virtues of his life. It was remembered, likewise. 
how much he had dispersed and given to the poor ! 
He was so kind to his relations and friends, and all 
who applied to him for help, " that he outdid his 
proper capacity." Two orphan children of his 
brother, Mitchel Sewall, esq. were under his imme- 
diate care.f It was his intention to give them eve- 
ry advantage of education. The loss to them was 
irreparable. 

Judge Sewall died a bachelor. He was a mem- 
ber of Dr. Mayhew's church. The Dr. printed 
the sermon he preached after his death, which may 
appear too much in the strain of eulogy ; but he ob» 

* Dr. Mayhew's funeral sermon, 
t One of these was the late Mitclicl Sewall, esq. of Ports- 
mouth, who once made a figure at. the bar, and was celebrated us 
a poet. 



422 SEW 

serves, that the memory of wise and just men ought 
to be praised with all ardour of expression. " It 
seems but just and equitable," the Dr. adds, " that 
he^ who never spoke evil of any one, but honoured 
all men, and delighted to give all their due share of 
praise, should, at least, when he is dead and gone, 
be praised by all in his turn ; and so much the ra- 
ther because he would not willingly suffer any to 
commend him while living, which was the truth 
concerning this excellent person." 

Sew ALL Joseph, D. D. was the son of thehon. 
Samuel Sewall, esq. chief justice of the province. 
He was graduated at Harvard College, 1707, and 
was ordained as colleague with the rev. Mr. Pem- 
berton, pastor of the old south church, Sept. 16, 
1713. For many years he continued to preach to 
this people, who were edified, instructed and com- 
forted by his labours. He was a man who seemed 
to breathe the air of heaven, while he was here upon 
earth ; he delighted in the work of the ministry ; 
and when he grew venerable for his age, as well as 
his piety, he was regarded as the father of the cler- 
gy. The rising generation looked upon him with rev- 
erence, and all classes of people felt a respect for 
his name. He was a genuine disciple of the fa- 
mous John Calvin. He dwelt upon the great arti- 
cles of the christian faith in preaching and conver- 
*sation ; and dreaded the propagation of any opin- 
ions in this country, which were contrary to tj^e prin- 
ciples of our fathers. Hence he was no friend to 
free inquiries, or to any discussion of theological 
opinions, which were held true by the first reform- 
ers. His advice to students in divinity was, to 
read the Bible always with a comment, such as Mr. 
Henry's, or archbishop Usher's, and to make them- 
selves acquainted with the work of his great prede- 
cessor, Mr. Willard, whose body of divinity was 
then in great repute. Though he so often preach- 
ed the doctrines of the gospel, yet he never entered 
into any curious speculations ; his object was to 



SEW 423 

impress upon people what they should believe, and 
how they must live to be eternally happy. His ser- 
mons were pathetick, and the pious strains of his 
prayers, as well as preaching, excited serious atten- 
tion, and made a devout assembly. His character 
was uniform, and the observation has often been 
made, if he entered into company something seri- 
ous or good dropt from his lips. ** His very pres- 
ence banished away every thing of levity, and sol- 
emnized the minds of all those who were with him." 
He received the degree of doctor of divinity from 
the university of Glasgow, in the year 1731 ; and 
was appointed a corresponding member of'* the so- 
ciety in Scotland for promoting christian know- 
ledge." He was also appointed one of the com- 
missioners, by the hon. corporation in London, " for 
the propagation of the gospel in New England, and 
parts adjacent." 

Although Df. Sewall was more remarkable for 
his piety than his learning, yet he was a friend to lit- 
erature, and endeavoured all in his power to pro- 
mote the interest and reputation of the college. He 
was a very good classical scholar. He could 
write handsomely in latin when he was an old man, 
and had read mimy authors in that language. Most 
of the works of the great divines of the preceding 
century were written in latin, as it was a kind of 
universal language among the literati of Europe. 
In the year 1724, upon tlie decease of Mr. Lever- 
et, Dr. Sewall was chosen to succeed him as pres- 
ident of Harvard College, which honourable station 
he did not see fit to accept. In 1728, upon Dr. 
Colman's resignation, he was chosen a fellow of the 
corporation, and he faithfully discharged the duties 
of this office, till the year 1765. 

His donation to the college of money to be ap- 
propriated to indigent scholars, has been of consid- 
erable use. He gave this during his life, and was 
among the first to repair the loss of the library, 
\yhen Harvard Hall was consumed by fire, by mak- 



424 SHE 

ing a present of many valuable books. This devout 
man also gave much alms to the people. He pos- 
sessed an estate beyond any of his brethren ; but 
he always devoted a tenth part of his income to pi- 
lous and charitable uses. 

It pleased the Lord of life to bless him with 
health, as well as other means of enjoyment. He 
lived to a good old age ; and preached to his people 
the evening he had arrived at fourscore years. The 
next Sabbath he was seized with a paralytical com- 
plaint, which confined him some months, and he di- 
ed, June 27th, 1769, in the 81st year of his age. 
. The Dr. published a number of funeral sermons. 
One on the death of Wait Winthrop, esq. 1717 ; 
king George 1st, 1727; on pres. Wadsworth, 
1737; on sec'y. Willard, 1756. He printed like- 
wise the election sermon, 1724 ; and a discourse 
on Rev. v. U, 12, 1745. 

Sharpe Thomas, one of the first planters, was 
chosen assistant, Oct. 20, 1629, and is the sixth 
member who joined in forming the congregational 
church of Boston and Charlestown. He could not 
reside long in New England, as we do not find his 
name among the assistants, who held their court 
in Boston, October, in the year 1630. He was 
present at the first court held on board the brig Ar- 
abella, August 23, when the question was decided 
how the minister should be maintained ? And also 
the second court, held at Charlestown, Sept. 7th. 

Shepard Thomas, pastor of the church in 
Cambridge, New England, was educated at Eman- 
uel College, university of Cambridge, Great Brit- 
ain, and was one of the nonconforming ministers who 
were silenced by the arbitrary measures of arch- 
bishop Laud. He came over to New England in 
1635 ; and succeeded Mr. Hooker, who exchang- 
ed his place of abode from Newton as it was then 
called, to Hartford, a settlement upon Connecticut 
river. 

Mr, S. died in 1649. in the 44th year of his age. 



SHE 425 

He was a pattern of piety, industry and evangelical 
preaching. He was esteemed by his cotempora- 
ries among the first divines in New England, and 
his works are now read with sacred deli2:ht bv ma- 
ny serious people. His publications were both 
doctrinal and practical. His treatise upon '* the mo- 
rality of the sabbath" is very learned and judicious. 
It is a rare book, but still preserved in some libra- 
ries ; he also wrote a book upon *' the matter of 
the visible church," and another upon " the church 
membership of little children." He printed, be- 
sides these, a letter under the title of " New Eng- 
land's lamentation for Old England's errors." His 
practical treatises are a sermon " upon drunken- 
ness ;" a sermon on " subjection to Christ ;" on 
*' ineffectual hearing of the word." " The sincere 
convert," a larger treatise, which passed through 
four editions in London ; "the sound believer," a 
book often printed in America, to these we add, an 
explanation of " the parable of the ten virgins," 
which work he prepared, and it was printed after 
his death. The great president Edwards makes 
free use of this book in his " treatise on the affec- 
tions." 

Shepard Thomas, minister of the church in 
Charlestown, was the eldest son of Mr. Shepard of 
Cambridge, was graduated 1653, at Harvard Col- 
lege, was a fellow of the college, and died Dec. 22, 
1677, of the small pox, etat. 43. 

To give posterity the knowledge of him Dr. 
Mather brings the engravings on his tomb -stone, 
also the testimony of president Oakes who delivered 
an elegant latin oration the ensuing commencement, 
in which he says, Amisimus, Amisimus, memorat- 
isimum ilium virum, reverendissimum Thomam 
Shepardam : respublica civem optimum, Ecclesia, 
theologum clarissimum, academia non filium tan- 
tum, et alumnum charissimum, sed curatorem 
etiam vigilantissimum; municipium scholaaticum, 
sociurgi suum primarium, amiserunt." 
3 G 



426 S H !•: 

The third testhnoiiy of his fame, is his own e- 
lection serraon, 1672, where the reader will see so 
much wisdom, learning, and faithfulness "constel- 
lated," that he will pronounce the author to be a 
man of first rate talents. 

Shepard Samuel, pastor of the church in 
Rowley, was the second son of Mr. S. of Cam- 
bridge. He was graduated at Harvard College, 
1658, ordained about 1662, and died 1668, etat 27. 

The celebrated Mr. Mitchell wrote his character 
in these words. He was a precious, holy, meditat- 
ing, able, choice young man. 07ie of the first three. 
He was an excellent preacher, most dearly belov- 
ed at Rowley. The people would have plucked out 
their eyes to have saved his life. But he was ripe 
for heaven, and God took him thither." 

Shepard Jeremiah, pastor of the church at 
Lynn, was the third son of Mr. S. of Cambridge. 
He was graduated at Harvard College, 1669, and 
ordained in 1679. He lived to be much older than 
his brothers : was a minister at Lynn, 41 years, and 
died June 2, 1720, etat, 72. The three brothers 
are recorded in the Magnalia, as three excellent 
tiiinisters, which the author thinks to be something 
better " than to have three orators like the Curii at 
Rome." 

Shepard Thomas, the only son of Mr. Shep- 
ard of Charlestown, and his successor in the minis- 
try, was graduated at Harvard College, 1676. The 
people of Charlestown invited him to the place of 
his father, as he resembled him in all his virtues, 
'' nullum unquam monumentum clarius, relinque- 
re potuit, quam effigiem, morum suarum, virtutis, 
constantise, pietatis ingenii filium." These lines 
which TuUy writes concerning S. Sulpicius, have 
been applied to Mr. Shepard of Charlestown. The 
last of the three died younger than his father or 
grandfather. They died, when they were turned of 
40. This excellent young man, died when he was 
only in the 27th year of his age. He seemed to 



S H E 427 

have some premonition of his dissolution, and 
preached 13 sermons on Eccles. xii. 5. " Man 
goeth to his long home.'* He did not publish any 
of his writings, but he left for the benefit of others 
the perfume of his name, and the Uistre of his ex,- 
ample. 

Sheri^ian" John, a great divine and eminent 
mathematician, was born at Dedham, Dec. 26, 
1613, and received his first impressions of religion 
under the ministry of the famous John Rogers. At 
school he discovered uncommon industry and in- 
genuity, and at an early age went to the university 
of Cambridge. He did not receive his degree, be- 
cause he could not subscribe the articles required, 
preferring the name of puritan to the literary hon- 
ours he might have by conforming to the church of 
England. He came to America in the year 1634, 
and preached his first sermon at Watertown, as an 
assistant to Mr. Phillips. Having continued some 
time with this people, he then removed to New 
Haven, and preached occasionally as he was invited 
by people in their several towns. Mr. Hooker and 
Mr. Stone once declared in an assembly of divines, 
«' Brethren, we must take heed to ourselves and our 
ministry, or this young man will outdo us all." He 
declined settling at Milford where he had a call, and 
went into civil life. For some time he was a mag- 
istrate of the colony. He was persuaded, however, 
to put off his robes of oflice, when the people of 
Watertown, after the death of Mr. Phillips, gave 
him an invitation to be his successor. At the same 
time one of the Boston churches expressed a desire 
that he would settle with them, and he received a 
letter from London making a similar request. He 
accepted the call from Watertown, and for many 
years they rejoiced in his light. He was also a great 
blessing to the college. He was chosen fellow of 
the corporation, and delivered lectures which most 
of the students attended. Being a first rate scholar^ 
an accomplished preacher, they were willing once a 



428 SHE 

fortnight to walk a few miles to hear him. For 
30 years he continued these lectures and drew ma- 
ny hearers from other towns in the vicinity. He 
improved his great intellectual abilities by a close 
attention to his studies. Dr. Mather says he was 
undoubtedly " one of the greatest mathematicians 
that ever lived in this hemisphere of the world." 
He left many astronomical calculations in mss. For 
some years he published an almanack, and always 
added pious reflections. This is one of them. 
*' Let me entreat one thing of thee and 1 will adven- 
ture to promise thee a good year : the request is in 
itself reasonable, and may be to thee eternally profi- 
table. Its only this : duly to prize, and diligently 
improve time, for obtaining the blessed end it was 
given for, and is yet graciously continued to thee, 
by the eternal God. Of 365 days, allowed by the 
making up of this year, which shall be thy last, thou 
knowest not ; but that any of them may be it, then 
oughtest thou to know, and so consider, that thou 
may est pass the time of thy sojourning here with 
fear," 

Mr. Sherman married twice, and had 26 children, 
twenty by the last, she lived his widow some years. 
The last sermon he preached was at Sudbury — He 
was there taken sick and died at Watertown, Aug. 
8, 1685, aged 72. Magnalia. 

Sherman Roger> was born at Newtown, 
April 19, 1721. His first ancestor in this country 
was John Sherman, who came from Dedham in Kn- 
gland, and settled at Watertown, 1635. His son 
John was the father of William, who was the father 
of the gentleman, the present subject of our notice. 
W. Sherman removed from Massachusetts to Mil- 
ford, Connecticut, about the year 1741. He was 
admitted to the bar, as a counsellor of law in 1754, 
and made a figure in his profession, though he had 
never been bred to the law, or had the advantages 
of an acadenucal education. The resources of his 
own mind were very greirt. and he pursued his stu- 



SHI 429 

dies with wonderful diligence. He was a repre- 
sentative for the town of New Milford, and atter- 
wards of New Haven. In 1765, he was appointed 
a justice of the court of common pleas. He receiv- 
ed an honorary degree of A. M. from Yale College, 
and tvas treasurer of the college many years. In 
1776, he was elevated to a seat on the supreme 
bench, and elected one of the assistants of the colo- 
ny. When the law was enacted making these offi- 
ces incoiYsistent, he resigned his place, as counsel- 
lor or asssistant and continued on the bench of 
judges. He was the same year present in congress, 
and signed the glorious act of independence. He 
not only was delegate but one of the committee 
which drew up the declaration. In 1787, he was 
appointed a delegate to the convention which form- 
ed the federal constitution ; and afterwards in the 
state convention which adopted it. He was then 
elected a representative to the first congress under 
the new constitution, and when a vacancy for Con- 
necticut happened in the United States senate, he 
was elected to fill it, and in this office he continued 
till his death which took place at New Haven, July 
20, 1793. 

Shirley William, governour of Massachu- 
setts from 1740 to 1757, was an English gen- 
tleman who practised law, in Boston. At the time 
he was appointed, his lady was in England. She 
had been soliciting a post of profit for Mr. S. in the 
province, and by the assistance of her own friends, 
and the intrigues of Belcher's enemies, obtained the 
government. He was a man of address, knew how 
to manage the several parties, and conducted so well 
as to gain the affection of the people, and continue 
on the side of the prerogative. 

The court did more for him than they were will- 
ing to do for any of his predecessors ; for they ad- 
vanced the governour's salary to 1000 pounds ster- 
ling per annum. 

The principal events in his administration were 



430 SHI 

these. In 1745, the expedition to Louisbmp-. Of 
this he was not the projector, noi* as some liave 
supposed, even an adviser, though after the suc- 
cess of it, he was desirous of being- considered 
as the main spring of the whole business. Mr. 
Auchmuty laid the plan in his study, says Smol- 
let. Neither Hutchinson, nor Belknap mention 
Auchmuty's name. The plan is given by Vaughan, 
and pressed upon Shirley, who was gratified with 
the enterprise, but was afraid to be responsible, 
and therefore contrived to have the general court 
patronise it ; so that if it had not succeeded, he 
should be free from blame. Hence he always spake 
*' your expedition gentlemen" — till the capture, 
and then it was " our expedition." 

The year succeeding the capture of Cape Breton, 
the famous expedition against the colonies was 
frustrated. The duke d'Anville's fleet was com- 
pletely destroyed. 

A body of provincials stationed at Minas, was 
surprised by a party of French and Indians, and the 
whole number, amounting to about 160, slain or 
made prisoners. In 1747, an uncommon tumult 
happened at Boston, in which the govcrnour was 
accidentally involved. Commodore Knowles ym- 
pressed a number of men from the vessels and 
wharves. The governour's house was s\irrounded 
by the enraged multitude, and he fled to the castle, 
which was considered by many, the high sons of 
liberty, as an abdication of the government. In 
1749, an act was passed calling in the bills of cred- 
it, and exchanging them for silver, and the province 
was enabled to do it, by the reimbursement for 
the Louisburg expedition. 

In 1754, the governour refusing his assent to the 
excise bill, became very popular. It is to be reckoned 
among the strange events of our political assembly, 
that the excise bill, so unfriendly to the liberties of 
the people, was supported in the house by men who 
had been whigs hitherto. And that it met its death 



SHU 431 

blow by those who h:ive ever been styled the torv 
aclmiiHstration. Hutchinson opposed it. Shij-ley 
negatived it. From this period the governoiir left 
the management of civil affliirs, for which he was 
very capable, for the military department which he 
knew very little about. Upon the conquest of Lou- 
isburgh, he was appointed to be the col. of a regi- 
ment on the British establishment to be raised in 
America. Afterwards he had a higher military 
command, and went to dispossess the French of Nia- 
gara in which he was unsuccessful. 

When gov. Shirley was in Europe, with a commis- 
sion, to settle an important business, for which he 
was supposed to be qualified, as it related to the 
French claims in America, he there formed a mat,- 
jimonial connexion with a lady of the Catholick re- 
ligion. Ihis was disgusting to the province, as 
the people at tliat time detested the French, and all 
popi^ih connections. It had such an effect upon his 
administration, that he felt the weight of the oppo- 
sition, and soon lost his place. He was superced- 
ed in his government by Thomas Pownal, esq. 
without losing the favour of the crown. He 
afterwards received an appointment as govern- 
our of tlie Bahama Islands. In 1770 he, return- 
ed to Boston, and for the short space he lived 
he resided in his house at Roxbury, which had 
been kept in the family. It was indeed a spa- 
cious mansion, well situated, and capable of great 
improvement around it. This house was made a 
barrack for our soldiers in 1775, and much injured. 
He died in April, 1771, a poor man, but was hon- 
ourably interred. 

SnuTt SAMtJEL, esq. arrived in Boston, 4th of 
October, 1716, with his commission, as governour 
of Massachusetts. He had been colonel of a Brit- 
ish regiment, and served under the duke of Marl- 
borough. He was of a family eminent among the 
dissenters. A similarity of religious principles ren- 
dered him very agreeable tg the inhabitants of the 



432 SHU 

province, and they felt the more satisfied, as they 
had some reason to think that a warm episcopali- 
an, and a man of arbitrary notions, was to be put in- 
to the chair. His administration, however, of a 
few years, was rendered irksome to himself, and 
not grateful to the people. This was owing to par- 
ty spirit, or the peculiar increase of it, among the 
popular leaders by his instructions to have a salary 
iixed. These instructions he adhered to, and to 
these the friends of the old charter were violently 
opposed. There had been parties ever since the new 
charter. Dudley's adherents had been styled ene- 
mies of charter privileges. But in Shute's time 
there was another cause of division ; they who 
were called the bank party, were in the opposition 
to government. The prudence rather than the in- 
terest of the governour led him to prevent such ac- 
cumulation of ideal property in the hands of colo- 
nists ; especially as it was a serious evil to the in- 
habitants of the colony. Hence so sedate and ac- 
ceptable a man as Mr. Shute could not please the 
generality, and his friends wtie unable to resist the 
tide that set against him. The discordant sound 
was heard when he negatived Mr. Cooke who was 
then considered as the man of the people. The 
controversy, which had been excited, was managed 
with zeal by the house of representatives ; and con- 
tinued during his whole administration. The 
council was not so much engaged, and were often 
on the side of the governour, which displeased the 
leaders of the other house. 

The conduct of Mr. Shute displeased some of the 
more precise adherents to the garb of religion. He 
sometimes indulged himself in amusements and 
parties of pleasure, which these gra'ue censors of hu- 
man manners supposed incompatible with the dig- 
nity of his station, and inconsistent with that godli- 
ness which should characterise a christian common- 
wealth. In 1723, Jan. 1, the governour left Bos- 
ton and sailed for England, he embarked suddenly. 



S K E 433 

acquainting only his particular friends with his de- 
sign. 

The memorials he exhibited after his arrival caus- 
ed the proceedings of the house of representatives 
to be censured by the king and council. Whether 
he was to be justified or blamed must be learned 
from the history of those transactions published by 
those of diiferent opinions. 

He had a pension in England settled upon him for 
life, where he could indulge his natural love of ease, 
free from the tumults of a people who were dispos- 
ed to vex him. There he died full of days, having 
lived to the age of fourscore years. His character 
was, in and out of the province of Massachu- 
setts, when men were not engaged in the violence of 
dispute, a man of an open, generous, humane dis- 
position, a friend to liberty, and if not endued with 
great abilities as a governour, yet just and upright 
in his private affairs, and with the best intentions of 
regulating the affairs of his government. 

Sk ELTON Samuel, pastor of the church in Sa- 
lem, was a minister of Lincolnshire, Great Britain, 
a pious man, whose abilities and character were re- 
spected by the puritans. He was associated with 
Mr. Higginson as a minister of the new plantation ; 
for we learn that at a meeting of the Massachusetts 
company in London, April 8, 1629, Mr. Francis 
Higginson, Mr. Samuel Skelton, &c. are entertain- 
ed, and engage to labour among the Indians and 
English. Their names are put into the council, 
next to Mr. Endicot's, where the style runs, " gov- 
ernour and council of London's plantation."* The 
vessels in which they sailed arrived at Naumkeak 
in the month of June ; the 20th of July was set 

* April 10, at a general court of Massachusetts company in 
London, they elected Mr. Endicot,governour, Mr. Higginson, Skel- 
ton, Bright, John ajid Samuel Brown, Tliomas Graves, and Samuel 
Sharpe to be of the council. The governour and council to choose 
three others : the planters two more ; of whicli twelve counsel- 
lors the major part may clioose a deputy and secretary, that they 
continue a year, 8cc. Prince's chronology, 

3 H 



4^34 S K E 

apart for prayer and fasting, and the triarmid choice 
oF a pastor and teacher ; and August 6, for the 
choice of elders and deacons. Their office was then 
defined, the delegates from Plymouth being present. 
Mr. Skelton, being further advanced in years, was 
constituted pastor of Salem church, Mr. Higginson 
teacher. The elder was Mr. Houghton, who died 
the next year. Mr. Hij^ginson likewise died be- 
fore a year elapsed from his installation. Mr. Skel- 
ton was the particular friend of Mr. Endicot. He 
was the more regarded by that gentleman, because 
he received his first religious impressions under his 
preaching. He was ready to support Mr. Endicot, 
likewise in the strict discipline which he thought 
necessary for the churches, and fell in with all his 
superstitious notions about veils. &c. His col- 
league, Mr. Williams, who came over in 1631, con- 
firmed him in his prejudices against the church of 
England. They also acted in concert against the 
ministers of the bay, whom they accused of seeking 
power and influence, and of forming themselves 
upon the model of a presbytery, because they met 
together in a body once a fortnight, although it was 
more for the enjoyment of social propensities, than 
any religious purposes. There was a want of friend- 
ship between the ministers of Boston with its neigh- 
bourhood, and the ministers of Salem. Every 
thing which one party did, was found fault with by 
the other. It is remarkable that no kind of notices 
of the character of Mr. Skelton, a man so distin- 
guished among the first planters, should be given 
by the writers of that, or the succeeding generation. 
Governour Winthrop just mentions his death, Au- 
gust 2, 1634. Dr. Mather mentions very little 
about him, though so apt to introduce the lives of 
men in his history. In an account of Salem by the 
rev. Mr. Bentley, we are told that he died when 
Mr. Endicot, his benefactor, was out of favour, 
^^ No particular records of his services was kept. 
His opinions made him no personal enemies ; bu| 



S T A 435 

its he never acted alone, he yielded to otliersall the 
|)ra!se of his best actions." 

Standish Miles, first military officer in New 
Plymouth, came over with the pilgrims in 1620, 
He was a man brave, enterprising, whose per- 
severance was equal to the boldest resolutions form- 
ed upon the impulse of the mind. As success al- 
ways attended him, the first settlers placed the 
greatest confidence in the man. When the town 
of Plymouth was fortified, he had the care of it 
committed to him, and with a very few men he was 
able to defend it. He made several bold excur- 
sions in the neighbourhood of Plymouth in 1723, 
and also went to iMr. Weston's plantation which he 
saved from destruction. He certainly delivered the 
people from the death which the Indians threatened, 
and were ready to execute. He also went to Cape 
Ann in 1624, w^here the fishermen of Plymouth 
had been abused by a company from the west of 
England. The captain was disposed to finish this 
•business by some warlike achievement, but it was 
settled by men of more prudence and moderation. 
The particulars of these expeditions are related by 
Hubbard and Hutchinson, and make part of an ex- 
cellent memoir in ** Belknap's American Biogra- 
phy." This narrative of the affiiir at Cape Ann is 
given in Hubbard's mss. as follows, " capt. Stand- 
ish was bred a soldier in the low countries, and ne- 
ver entered into the school of Christ, or of John the 
Baptist ; or if ever he was there, he forgot his first 
lessons, to offer violence to no man, and to part 
with the cloak, rather than needlessly contend for 
the coat, though taken away without order. A lit- 
tle chimney is soon fired ; so was the Plymouth 
captain, a man of small statuF«, yet of a very hot 
and angry temper. The fire of his passion soon 
kindled, and blown up into a flame by hot words, 
might easily have consumed all, had it not been 
seasonably quenched." In other parts of his writ- 
ing he speaks of capt. Standish with more respect. 



436 S T E 

He not only gives him a good character as a sol- 
dier, but says he performed his duty well as a civil 
officer. •' He was improved to good acceptance,'* 
says he, and success in ailBiirs of the greatest mo- 
ment to the colony ; to whose interest he continu- 
ed firm and stedfast to the last, and always manag- 
ed his trust with great integrity and faithfulness." 

In the year 1625, he went to England as agent 
for the colon\\ He did every thing to serve his 
constituents, which a skilful and prudent man could 
do, but the plague raged in London, and had car- 
ried off 40,000 persons, and those who otherwise 
would have turned their eyes to this infant settle- 
ment, were engaged in more interesting matters, 
tjie saving themselves a& well as their property 
from the dangers which hung over them. He re- 
turned to Plymouth in 1626, with a small supply 
of goods, which was of great advantage to the poor 
pilgrims, but their souls were filled with grief by 
the sorrowful intelligence which he brought them 
of the death of their pastor Mr. Robinson, and their 
faithful friend Mr. Robert Cushman. 

After this voyage capt. Standish retired to his 
farm, and lived in rural tranquillity, though not in 
the shadows of obscurity. He was magistrate of 
the Plymouth colony as long as he lived. He died 
a man full of years, and honoured by his generation, 
in 1656, at Duxbury. The spot in that town which 
is called Captain's hill, belonged to him, and took 
]ts name from this circumstance. 

Stevens Benjamin, D. D. minister of the 
church at Kittery point, was the son of the rev. Jo- 
seph Stevens, minister of Charlestown, who had 
been tutor and fellow of the college when he was a 
young man ; and was again chosen fellow of the 
corporation 17 12, in which office be continued till his 
death in 1722. His son was graduated at Harvard 
College in 1740. Having lost his father when he 
was a child, he was deprived of the advantages of 
his instruction, but was an object of the tender con- 



S T E 437 

cern of others, and his own exertions and excellent 
disposition lessened the care of his friends, as well 
as gratified their fond and lively expectations. He 
was ordained at Kittery some years after he left the 
place of his education. When he settled with this 
people, they were in fair and flourishing circum- 
stances. Several merchants of large property re- 
sided in the town ; navigation was carried on in va- 
rious branches ; elegant houses were built ; and 
strangers were allured to the spot where they might 
visit sir William Pepperell, and be entertained by 
the various branches of his family in their hospita- 
ble mansions. Mr. S. lived to see vast alterations 
made in the place, and to bury his old friends with 
whom he enjoyed religious fellowship, as well as 
the friendship which gives a charm to social life. 
Of late we should not select this place for a minis- 
ter of the first talents in his profession, or one as re- 
markable for social qualities, as his wisdom. Mr. 
Stevens was distinguished for his piety and learn- 
ing. His intellectual powers were strong, and he 
engaged with ardor, and great diligence in the pur- 
suits of science. He shone in conversation, and in 
the pulpit. Possessing a great stock of religious 
knowledge he introduced maxims, useful and pious, 
with great pertinence, which rendered him an in- 
structive and entertaining companion. In his pub- 
lick discourses he reasoned well. These were hap- 
pily diversified. He was methodical and ingenious, 
pathetick and scriptural. His voice was rather 
strong, but not clear or musical ; otherwise the per- 
spicuity of his manner would have rendered him 
popular. But he wanted the graces of delivery. 

He did not print many discourses, but those he 
did publish are among the very best American ser- 
mons. The election sermon 1761, was much 
celebrated, as likewise a sermon delivered before a 
convention of ministers at Portsmouth ; the funeral 
discourses, one upon the death of Andrew Pepper- 
ell, 1752 ; and the sermon upon^irWUliarn Pepper- 



438 S T I 

'ell, 1759. He preached the Dudleian lecture, 1772v 
tipon the evidences in favour of Christianity. No 
inan was better acquainted with the deistical contro- 
versy. The corporation and o%'erseers presented 
him with a diploma of doctor in divinity in the year 
1785. We do not find any publication of his in 
latter years. But many have wished to have a vol- 
ume of his sermons published. He died, May 18, 
1798, etat. 70. 

Stiles Ezra, president of Yale College, was 
the son of the rev. Isaac Stiles of North Haven, 
Connecticut. He entered college in 1742, and was 
distinguished among the students for his bright 
genius, his intellectual accomplishments, his moral 
virtues, and the suavity of his manners. Wlien he 
received the honours of the seminary in New Hav- 
en in 1746, he was esteemed one of the greatest 
scholars it had ever produced. He first commenc- 
ed his course of life with the study and practice of 
the law, he afterwards thought it his duty to preach 
the gospel ; and settled at Newport, as pastor of the 
second church, where he continued from 1755, to 
the year 1776. During this, and several succeed- 
ing years, the enemy were in possession of Newport; 
and the inhabitants of the town scattered. Df. 
Stiles was solicited to preach in several places, but 
he accepted the invitation from the church at Ports* 
mouth to remove and settle with them. In this 
place he was universally admired. He has left ac- 
knowledgments of the kind attention of this people ; 
they indulged a pride in the relation which subsist- 
ed between them. They thought him the most 
learned man of the age, were willing to hear very 
long sermons, some of them very critical disquisi- 
tions ; because they flowed from the lips of Dr. 
Stiles. There were many polite families in the 
place. The doctor was a gentleman in his man- 
ners. His mildness, condescension, fluency in con- 
versation, entertaining and instructive mode of 
giving his opinion, endeared him to .those who felt 



STI 439 

a reverence for his character. He had a kind of fa- 
miliar intercourse which was very pleasing to all 
clabses of people especially the rising generation. 
He would excite their emulation and make them 
think favourably of themselves. Hence some have 
called him a flatterer, which was not the case. His 
candid spirit and a disposition to view every person 
in the best light, and to put the best construction 
upon every action, made him speak and act, as 
though he coveted the good opinion of others, by 
addresses to their vanity. But his acquaintance 
knew where to trace the cause. They had as high 
an opinion of his integrity, as of his charity and affa- 
bility. His private diary discovers his sincerity. 
In this he celebrates the virtues and accomplish- 
ments of j>ersons who could make no return. He 
might betray want of judgn>ent, in some instances, 
but cannot be accused of paying empty compli- 
ments ; he certainly had a greater knowledge of 
books, than of mankind. 

In 1778, he was chosen president of Yale Col- 
lege, to the great disappointment of the Portsmouth 
church. They wished to fix him as their pastor. 
But this election gave pleasure to the friends of sci- 
ence. The plain language of Dr. Chauncy ex- 
pressed the wish of the publick, while it declared 
the opinion of the Boston association. " I know of 
none," said he, *' but who rejoice at the election to 
the presidency, and unite in the opinion that you 
are loudly called to accept the appointment." On 
the 8th of July, 1778, he was inducted into the of- 
fice. In this conspicuous orb he shone with un- 
common lustre a number of years, w^as an honour 
to the college and his country, and left a name wor- 
thy of everlasting remembrance. He died on the 
J2th of May, 17^5, etat. 68. 

His character is delineated in the publick papers, 
and in several sermons ; memoirs have been also 
printed by Dr. Holmes, in an octavo volume, enti- 
tled " life of president Stiles," which is a very in- 



440 S T O 

teresting and very useful work, containing many en- 
tertaining anecdotes, biosi;raphical sketches and 
much literary information, besides a minute and ve- 
ry just account of the president. Dr. Stiles had 
every literary honour which his country could be- 
stow upon him, was a member of many learned so- 
cieties abroad, and was the intimate friend and cor- 
respondent of the first characters in Kurope and 
America. His publications are not numerous. 
They are known in the learned world, and consist 
of philosophical essays, and historical narratives,* 
but chiefly sermons, and theological tracts. 

Stoddard Solomon, pastor of the church of 
Northampton, has always been considered as one of 
the greatest divines of New England. His ser- 
mons, his theological essays, and controversial 
writings have given him uncommon distinctioui 
He was born at Boston, 1643, Antony Stoddard^ 
esq. was his father ; his mother was the sister of 
sir George Downing. He received the elements of 
his education under the famous master Corlet at 
Cambridge ; and was graduated at Harvard College 
1662. He was afterwards one of the fellows of the 
house. Close application to his studies having in- 
jured his health he sailed to Barbadoes, as chaplain 
to gov. Serle. and preached to the dissenters in that 
island. When he returned to his native country 
he was invited to the pastoral office at Northampton, 
to succeed the rev. Kleazer Mather, who was the 
first minister of the town and died young. He was 
ordained, 1672, and preached without any interrup- 
tion 56 years. *' His sermons were plain and pow- 
erful, experimental and spiritual, close and search- 
ing, yet rational and argumentative. He preached 
for many years the publick lecture in Boston the 
day after commencement, and crowds of pious peo- 
ple assembled to hear."t He was stiictly calvinisti- 
cal in his opinions upon doctrinal points but more 

* See Dr. Holmes's book. 
+ Dr. Colraan'ft iimeral sermon. 



S T O 441 

liberal than other divines of this country upon 
points of church discipline and government. In 
the year 1700, he wrote an answer to Dr. Increase 
Mather's book, entitled the " order of the gospel," 
which excited a very alarming qontroversy. The 
preface to this book contains these words, " The 
reader is desired to take notice that the press in Bos- 
ton is so much under the influence of the rev. au- 
thor we answer, and his friends, that we could not 
obtain of the printer there to print the following 
sheets," &c. The book was patronised by the foun- 
ders of Brattle street church, and when Mr. Green 
denied the assertion in the preface, and said *' that 
neither president Mather, nor his son' Cotton ever 
discouraged the printing any book." Mr. Brat- 
tle, Mr. Mico, Mr. Tuthil, declared upon oath that 
such conversation as this took place, " It was a 
shame so worthy a minister as Mr. Stoddard must 
send so far as England to have his book printed, 
vvhen young Mr. M. had the press at his pleasure. 
To which he replied that he hoped Mr. Mather was 
another guess man than Mr. Stoddard." Some 
years after this Mr. Stoddard and Dr. Increase Ma- 
ther had another controversy. Mr. S. printed a 
sermon concerning qualifications for the Lord's 
supper. Dr. M. wrote a dissertation, wherein the 
strange doctrine, lately published in a sermon, 
" the tendency of w^hich is to encourage unsanctifi- 
ed persons to approach the table of the Lord," is 
confuted. This was answered by Mr. S. in a 
book of 100 pages, entitled an " appeal to the learn- 
ed, in vindication of the rights of visible saints to 
the Lord's supper." A small anonymous pam- 
phlet, '* the appeal of some of the unlearned," 
followed this, but the question was handled in 
such a masterly manner by Mr. Stoddard that most 
of the churches in Connecticut or upon the river 
were guided by his sentiments. This controversy 
was about the year 1708. It was revived in 1749 
by the grandson of Mr. Stoddard Mr. Jonathan Ed- 

3 1 



441 S T O 

wards, who was settled a colleague with the old 
gentleman, and for some years was of the same 
opinion. He altered his sentiments afterwards 
and publickly defended them. The controversy 
ended in his dismissal from Northampton, but 
his writings had a wonderful efiect. Many of the 
churches, who thought Mr. Stoddard could not be 
ifn an error, were convinced by the arguments of 
Mr. Edwards. Mr. Stoddard, however great he 
was considered while he lived, was surpassed by his 
grandson, in the opinion of the succeeding genera- 
tion. 

That great divine, who is considered by many, the 
light of these New England churches, as John Cal- 
vin was of the reformation, wrote his " inquiry con- 
cerning the qualifications for a complete standing in 
the visible church" about the year 1749. 

The works of Mr. Stoddard are numerous, and 
several theological treatises of his, have passed 
through several editions. 

He died February 11, 1729, ctat. 86,^ and left an 
aged widow, the daughter of Mr. Warham who 
came over to Dorchester in 1630, and afterwards 
settled at Windsor in Connecticut. She was first 
married to Mr. Eleazer Mather. His eldest son, 
Anthony Stoddard, was settled at Woodbury, as 
pastor of the church. The second son, col. John 
Stoddard, was for many years one of his majesty's 
council. Butfewmen, according to Hutchinson, were 
more universally esteemed. The several govern- 
ours intrusted to his direction the military affairs of 
the county of Hampshire, which in the time of war 
was peculiarly exposed. He died June 12, 1748. 

Stone Samuel, teacher of the church in Hart- 
ford, Connecticut, came over to New England in 
the same vessel which brought Mr. Cotton, and 
Mr. Hooker. He went with the company that set- 
tled the town on Connecticut river, which they call- 
ed Hartford, this being the name of the place where 
Mr. Stone was born in the old country. He con- 



3 T O 443 

tinued his labours with this people about 30 years, 
fourteen with Mr. Hooker, and sixteen after the 
death of that great and worthy divine. The lat- 
ter years of his life were rendered very uncomforta- 
ble by a schism in his own church, which caused 
Xhe fire of contention to spread over the colony. It 
originated between him, and the ruling elder, in a 
speculative opinion ; and it is not the only tnstance 
where disputes have soured the disposition which 
were founded in the pride of the understanding. 
The towns in the neighbourhood entered warmly 
into the quarrel, and most of them, as Dr. Mather 
says, "did not know what the quarrel was." Mr. 
Stone had a logical head, aind perhaps would hold 
arguments where a little common sense would an- 
swer better, Tlie elder was doubtless a gifted 
brother, and knew more from the light within, 
than his minister, who was only a master of rea- 
son. Mr. Stone has the name of a great dispu. 
tant. In the pulpit, he would introduce propo- 
sitions to discuss, before he came to any appli- 
cation. The heart is more apt to be affected, 
however, by evangelical sentiments delivered in an 
impressive manner ; and truth, like other beauties, 
appears best in a plain dress. The church at Hart- 
ford, sent for council after council, who were all 
under the influence of party zeal. To bring the 
matter to an issue, they at last sent to Boston where 
the ministers or delegates could have no partic- 
ular bias, but all they could do, did not prevent a 
division of the church. There was a removal of 
part of the church farther up the river, and those 
friends who once had dwelt in unity, never were re- 
conciled alter this unhappy difference. 

Mr. S, was very exact in his church discipline. 
Being once asked what a congregational church was ? 
He said, it was a " speaking aristocracy in the face 
of a silent democracy."* He printed a discourse 
<* upon- the logical notion of a congregational 

* Magnalia, book iii. chap. 16. 



444 S T 

chiirch." He also wrote a book " against antino- 
mianism," which the famous Baxter wished to see 
published. His greatest work, was a " body of di- 
vinity." This was never printed. But, says the 
author of the Magnalia, " this rich treasure has 
often been transcribed by the vast pains of our can- 
didates for the ministry, and it has made some of 
our most considerable divines ; but all attempts to 
print it have proved abortive." 

Stoughton William, lieut. governour of 
Massachusetts, was born at Dorchester, 1632. He 
was the son of Israel Stoughton, who was chosen 
assistant in 1637, and the same year commanded the 
Massachusetts forces in the Pequod war. He 
died, 1645. William was graduated at Harvard 
College, 1650. Having turned his mind to the stu- 
dy of divinity, he became one of the most eminent 
preachers of those times. His election sermon 
1668, is certainly one of the best that was printed 
during this century. He was never settled in the 
ministry but in the year 1671 was chosen a magis- 
trate. In 1677, he was appointed agent to the court 
of Great Britain, with Mr. Bulkley, speaker of the 
house of representatives to answer the complaints 
of Gorges and Mason concerning the patent line. 
He afterwards grew unpopular in the colony, on ac- 
count of his connexion with Dudley and Andross. 
He was on the moderate side of politicks. Such 
men though pure in their principles, are supposed 
to be wrong by violent men who must run to ex- 
tremes. They however very frequently save the 
vessel, when tossed by the waves and billows of the 
tempestuous sea* Afterwards, he obtained the 
friendbhip of Dr. Mather, on account of his piety, 
and became a favourite with all classes of people. 
Being recouimended by him to king William, he 
was appointed lieut. governour under the new char- 
ter of William and Mary. He was also chief jus- 
tice of the province. Unfortunately for the country^ 
the governour, lieut. governour, and the judges of 



S U L 445 

\\\e court believed in witchcraft. Stoughton's great 
abiFities were combined with so much weakness, 
and he was more obstinate in his error than others 
on the bench. Sewall humbled himself on account 
of tlie calamity to which he had been instrumental. 
The chief justice felt no remorse of conscience, 
though his opinion had caused innocent beings to 
suffer the most ignominous punishment inflicted on 
the guilty. In 1694, when Phips left the govern- 
ment, he was the commander in chief, and under 
his administration, the affairs of the province were 
conducted with great wisdom. When lord Bella- 
mont died in 1700, he again took the chair, but he 
did it with reluctance. His age and infirmities re- 
quired him to leave publick business. He did not 
live through two years. He died, May, 1702. His 
estate was large, and being a bachelor, he was ena- 
bled to assist literary and pious institutions. He 
built a college at Cambridge, which had the name 
of Stoughton hall inscribed upon it. The founda- 
tion stone was laid May 9th, 1698. It stood almost 
a century. A new college has been raised since, 
near the spot, and bears his name. 

"The inscription upon his monument in Dorches- 
ter burial place is now very legible. It was pub- 
lished in the collections of the historical society, 
vol. ii." 

Sullivan John, major general in the American 
army, was the eldest son of a Mr. Sullivan who 
came from Ireland, and settled in the district of 
Maine. The father having some knowledge of the 
latin language, kept a school in several parts of the 
eastern country and passed his latter years at Ber- 
wick, where he died at the age of 105. It has been 
said that he could speak French and latin fluently when 
he was 100 years old. His sons possessed talents, 
which being united with uncommon industry, they, 
without the advantage of academical education, c- 
merged from their obscure situation to the most con- 
spicuous stations, and the highest hamours their coun- 



446 8 U L 

try cou?d bestow. For several years before the re- 
volution, Mr. John Sullivan practised law in New 
Hampshire. He was a bold, energetick pleader at 
the bar, his business increased rapidly, and had he 
been governed by avarice, he would have acquired 
9 fortune in his business. But ambition was his 
predominant passion, and he preferred military glo- 
ry to every other kind of reputation. He first ac- 
cepted a commission as major of a regiment in the 
militia in 1772. There was then no immediate 
prospect of war, and he might only receive it as a 
mark of distinction. Rut as soon as hostilities 
commenced he appeared among the most ardent 
patriots and intrepid warriors. With a party of 
men in 1774 he went to the fort, and by a manoeu- 
vre obtained possession of it. I'his was attended 
■with no great danger had he made the attack, but 
the consequence might have been ruinous to him, 
if the independence of America had not taken place. 
In 1775, he was appointed brigadier general of the 
American army, and during that campaign com- 
manded on Winter hill. The next year he went to 
Canada, and after the death of gen. Thomas,* took 
the command of the troops, no longer destined to 
conquest. In making his retreat from this pro- 
vince of the British empire, he discovered great 
military prudence as well as courage. His conduct 
gained him credit, and he was a favourite of the sol- 
diers. In a skirmish on Long Island, August 27 
of this year, he was taken prisoner. ^le had liberty 

* Major general John Thomas of Kingston in the old colony 
of Plymouth, was an officer who acquired reputation in the 
French war which endtd with the peace of Paris in 1763. He 
was one of the Uesl officers of our army in 1775, and command- 
ed the division nearest the British lines in Roxbury. When 
Boston was evacuated he was sent to Canada, to take the com- 
■snand of the tioops which Montgomery and Arnold led into that 
province. A more brave, beloved and distinguished character 
did not go into the field, nor was there a man that made a greater 
sacrifice of his own ease, health and social enjoyments. He died 
of the small pox, |une 30, 1776, 



S U L 447 

to go upon his parole to Congress, and deliver a 
message from lord Howe. In October he was ex- 
changed for gen. Prescott and returned to the camp. 
At the battle of Trenton he commanded the right 
division, and gen. Greene the left ; also at the bat- 
tles of Brandy wine and Germantown, in the ^\\ of 
1777. He was chief in command of the troops 
which went on an expedition to Rhode Island, Au- 
gust, 1777, when count D'Estaing blocked up the 
port. The marquis de la Fayette and gen. Greene 
served as volunteers. Gov. Hancock went from 
Massachusetts at the head of the militia. The par- 
ticulars of the failure are related in the histories of 
the war. Sullivan and the regular troops did every 
thing to support the credit of the army. In 1779, 
an expedition was planned by gen. Washington to 
attack the Indians in their own settlements. A well 
chosen army was prepared, and gen. Sullivan put at 
the head. They penetrated above 90 miles through 
a wilderness, where they passed horrid swamps, 
and barren mountainous desarts. All the occur- 
rences are related in a letter to the president of 
congress, Sept. 30, 1779. After the peace with 
Great Britain, Mr. S. resumed his practice at the 
bur, he was one of tlie convention which formed 
the state constitution for New Hampshire, and chos- 
en into the first council. When president Lang- 
don accepted the place of senator of the United 
States, he was chosen president, and continued in 
the office till his death. He was succeeded in this 
office by col. Bartlett in 1790. 

Gen "Sullivan has a high rank among the officers 
of the revolutionary army, and has an equal claim 
to distinction among the statesmen, politicians and 
patriots of 1775, his name appears with some splen- 
dour among the literati of America. He acquired 
an extensive knowledge of men and things. He 
read more than any could suppose consistent with 
the active scenes of his life. Harvard University 
received him among her sons, as master of arts, and 



448 S Y M 

he was presented with a degree of doctor of laws by 
the university of Dartmouth. It ouj^ht to be no- 
ticed that gen. Sullivan was a member of the first 
congress in 1774. He resigned this office for the 
sake of 9:oing into the army. 

Smibert Nathaniel, a celebrated painter, 
died in the prime of life, and his death excited uni- 
versal sorrow. He was a most amiable and accom- 
plished youth, but like a fair flower just opening to 
the vi(?w, he was soon cut down. It is the general 
opinion of those who knew him, that, had he lived; 
he would have obtained a reputation equal to that of 
West, and Copely, or any other American genius, 
who has done honour to his country in the imitating 
art. They have had laurels heaped upon them. 
The myrtle grew upon his grave. His father was 
a painter of some eminence in the line of his pro- 
fession, and designed his son should be a scholar. 
For this purpose sent him to the school of which 
the famous Mr. Lovell was preceptor. One of the 
first and best pieces of Smibert's pencil was " the 
portrait of his old master while the terrifick impres- 
sions vibrated on his nerves." Smibert was a fine 
classical scholar, but did not incline to pass the 
number of years necessary for obtaining the hon- 
ours of college. He was passionately fond of his 
father's business, and their room was often visited 
by connoisseurs, for the sake of the pictures, many 
years after their heads were laid in the dust. One 
of the most prominent of this exhibition was a 
groupe, and dean Berkeley the principal character. 
We have been told of a portrait, once having a place 
there, of John Checkley, the famous scholar, and 
droll, with lines under it written by young Smibert, 
that discovered talents for poetry. 

The year of his death is not recollected exactly 
by his friends, had he been graduated at college, it 
would have been in the year 1757. He died about 
this time. 

Symmes Zachariah, pastor of the church in 
Charlestown, was born at Canterbury, April 5, 1599. 



S Y M 449 

His father's name was William. He was minister 
of Sandwich in 1587; and also the son of WiU 
liam, a man who was a protestant in the reign of 
Queen Mary. Zcchariah was educated at the uni, 
versity of Cambridge. He came into New England 
in 1635, and was invited to settle in Charlestown, 
as their teaching elder, Mr. James, being pastor of 
the church. Johnson speaks higlily of the wife of 
this Mr. Symmes. He belonged to Cliarlestown, 
and was doubtless acquainted with her, '* Among 
all the godly women," says he, *' that came through 
the perilous seas, Mrs. Sarah Symmes ought not 
to be omitted, her courage exceeded her stature, 
she bore every difficulty with cheerfulness, and 
raised up ten children to people this American wil- 
derness.*' Mr. Symmes had several children add- 
ed after Johnson wrote, according to his epitaph, 
which gives him 5 sons and 8 daughters. He diecl 
Feb. 4, 1676. 

SymmesZachariah, minister of Bradford, was 
the son of Mr. S. of Charlestown, and was graduated 
at Harvard College, 1657. He was one of the fel- 
lows of the college, was ordained at Bradford about 
the year 1660, and died, xMarch 22, 1708. 

Symmes Thomas, son of the minister of Brad- 
ford, was graduated at Harvard College, 1698, 
and settled first at Boxford. After he had left 
that people, he was invited to succeed his father 
in the church at Bradford. He had very popular 
talents in the pulpit, and made considerable of a 
figure in his profession, but he wanted prudence in 
the economy of his family, and a kind, winning 
manner of address with his parishioners. With a 
better salary than his neighbours he lived and died 
poor ; and he likewise kindled a party spirit in both 
parishes where he was settled. One matter of dis- 
pute was concerning church musick. The people 
were not used to regular singing, and he was de- 
termined to introduce it in opposition to their pre- 
judices. He was a singer himself, and could not 
3 K 



450 T A I 

bear jargon. He wrote an anonymous pamphlet 
upon this subject ; this was followed by "a joco- 
serious dialogue concerning regular singing," by 
Thomas Symmes, philomusicus, 1722. There was 
much ingenious satire, mingled with his argument, 
and he gave great offence. He died Oct. 22, 1725. 
His death was much lamented by ministers and the 
publick. That he was a fine speaker we may judge 
from the compliment of Dr. Colman in the preface 
to tiie artillery election sermon which Mr. Symmes 
preached and printed, 1 720, " may it be as profita- 
ble in the reading of it as it was pleasant in the 
hearing. The preacher was unto us, as a very 
lovely song of one that has a pleasant voice and can 
play well on an instrument," &c. Mr. Symmes al- 
so published in 1725. " historical memoirs of the 
fight at Pigwacket, and a sermon on the death of 
Capt. Lovwell.'* 

Tailer William, liieut. governour of Massa- 
chusetts, came over with his commission from the 
queen in 1711. He was a very facetious, pleasant 
man, and agreeable to the people in his manners, 
though in his politicks on the side of the preroga- 
tive, and in his religious principles an episcopalian. 
In 1722 Mr. Dummer was promoted to his place, 
and he had another office given to him, which he 
preferred, because the income was better and surer. 
But when Belcher was advanced to the chair of gov- 
ernment, he had promised a place to a gentleman, 
whom the agent, Mr. Wilkes, had recommended. 
On this account, it was settled that Mr. Tailer 
should again be lieut. governour, and Mr. Dummer 
a man every way qualified for his station, should be 
set aside. He died, March 1, 1732, aged 55 years. 
From a sermon preached at Thursday lecture, printed 
with a dedication to Mrs. Tailer, it seems he mar- 
ried a relation of gov. Stoughton, and possessed his 
estate at Dorchester. The preacher also tells the 
lady, *' her husband was no bigot, for he often at- 
tended worship with her at Dorchester meeting.'* 



THA 451 

This is not complete demonstration, considering 
what influence ladies have : to balance it wc might 
produce his name to a complaint of the episcopali- 
ans against tlie dissenters from their mode of wor- 
ship.* He was doubtless a very respectable charac- 
ter, and his principles catholick for those times, and 
he was attached to the country. He was also a man 
of sense and information. His funeral was splen- 
did, the bells in Boston all tolled from 11 until 5 
o'clock, though he was buried at Dorchester, and 
a greater number of carriages had never been ex- 
hibited. His excellency, gov. Belcher, the hon. 
Mr. Dummer, Addington Davenport, Thomas 
Hutchinson, Elisha Cooke, and Adam Winthrop, 
supported the pall. 

Thacher Thomas, first minister of the Old 
South church in Boston, was born in England, May 
1, 1620. His father was the rev. Peter Thacher, 
minister at Sarum, who intended to come over to 
these new regions, but was prevented by the state 
of his family. Thomas had a good school educa- 
tion, and it was his father's desire to send him to 
the universitj'^ of Oxford or Cambridge ; but he de- 
clined, and came over to New England, A. D. 1635. 
In a letter published by his uncle, Antony Thacher, 
we learn how remarkably he was preserved from 
shipwreck. His friends sailed from Ipswich in the 
month of August for Marblehead, where Mr. John 
Avery, a worthy divine, was to settle. A terrible 
storm threw the vessel upon the rocks, most of the 
people perished, and Mr. Thacher was cast ashore 
on a desolate island. It bears his name to this day, 
as also a place is called Aiiery'' s falU where this good 
man perished. Thomas Thacher preferred to go 
by land, and escaped these dangers. He received 
jiis education from Mr. Chauncy, who was after- 
wards president of the college. He studied not on. 
ly what is common for youth to acquire, but also 

• Funeral oermon,by rev. Mr. Cooper, and Historical CoDec- 
tions. 



452 T H A 

the oriental languages. He afterwards connposed a 
Hebrew lexicon, and we learn from Dr. Stiles, that 
he was a scholar in Arabick, the best the country 
afforded. This is not mentioned in our ecclesi- 
astical annals. Dr. Mather tells us, that he was a 
great logician; that he understood mechanics in the- 
ory and practice, that he would do all kinds of clock 
work to admiratioui He was eminent in two pro- 
fessions. He was pastor Df a church ; ordained at 
Weymouth, June 2, 1644. After some years mar- 
i'ying a second wife, who belonged to Boston, he 
left his parish at Weymouth, where he practised 
physick as well as preached, and was an eminent 
phyjician in this town. He was still looked upon as 
a great divine, and when a third church was found- 
ed, he was chosen their minister. Over this church 
he was installed, Feb. 16, 1669, and in this station 
he continued till he died. The last sermon he 
preached, was for Dr. I. Mather, 1. Peter, 4, 18. 
He afterwards visited a sick person, and was him- 
self seized with a fever, and expired Oct. 15, 1678. 
He left two sons, who were by his first wife, the 
daughter of the rev. Ralph Partridge of Duxbor- 
ough. The eldest, Peter, was a famous minister 
in the neighbourhood of Boston. And Ralph, who 
was settled at Martha's vineyard.* Magnalia, 

Thacher Peteti, son of the rev. T. Thacher, 
of Boston, was graduated at Harvard College, in 
1671. He was an excellent scholar, and an object 
of esteem and affection with the ingenuous youth 
of the university. An attachment to one of his class- 
mates, Mr. Samuel Danforth, son of the deputy gov- 
ernour, Thomas Danforth, led him to cross the At- 
lantick for the sake of enjoying his company in his 
travels. They had been tutors at the same time, 

* He printed very few of his productions. Except his He- 
brew Lexicon, and his catechism, each of which was on a slicct o!; 
paper ; and sonae account of the small pox in a few pages, there is 
nothing to be found, but " a fast sermon, 1674;" and this was 
transcribed irora the minutes of those who heard it. 



T H A 453 

and were unwilling to be separated, but death, the 
destroyer of every hope, who levels our most pleas- 
ing prospects with the dust, cut short the days of 
Mr. Danforth; upon which event, Mr. Thachcrre- 
turned to his native country. He was invited to 
take charge of the church, at Milton, and ordained 
September, 1681. 

He married the daughter of the rev. Mr. Oxen- 
bridge, pastor of the old church in Boston. She 
was the mother ot the children which survived him. 
He was pastor of the church at Milton above 46 
years, and was very much distinguished among his 
brethren. He preached the election sermon, 1711; 
Artillery election sermon, 1705; the convention 
sermon, 1724. The first of these was printed, the 
last is preserved in mss. being among the the valu- 
able treasures of the Historical society. He died, 
December 17, 1727. 

His character was delineated by an able hand in 
the Boston Weekly Newsletter. From which it 
appears that he had ** a great deal of vivacity, tem- 
pered with grace and wisdom ; that he was very en- 
gaging in conversation, and in hispublick perform- 
ances ; that he was a zealous assertor of the purity 
and liberty of the congregational churches, but ca. 
tholick to those who embraced other opinions ; and 
that his advice was often solicited in ecclesiastical 
councils." 

He did not outlive his usefulness, his intellectu- 
al vigour remaining at the last sabbath of his life. 
He then preached in a lively and affectionate man- 
ner. The next day he was seized with a complaint, 
which in 36 hours finished his course. 

Thacher Gxenbridge, was the son of Mr. 
Thacher of Milton ; was graduated at Harvard Col- 
lege, 1698 ; was a preacher for several years, and 
then fixed in Boston in a diff'erent line of business. 
He was selectman and representative^ and was left 
out of the general court, with the other friends of 
gov. Belcher in 1739. Soon after this, he retired to 



454 T H A 

Milton, where he passed the rest of his days. He 
lived longer than any of the generation with whom 
he sat out in the journey of life. He was 93 years 
old, when he died, in 1772. 

Thacher Oxen bridge, an eminent lawyer, 
son of Oxenbridge Thacher of Milton, was gradu- 
ated, 1738. He, also, was a preacher, but with a 
small voice, and slender state of health, did not 
meet with success equal to some who have only the 
sounding brass to give them a reputation. Mr. 
Thacher was sensible, learned, pious, a calvinist, 
beloved by his friends, and respected by the nume- 
rous friends of a family distinguished from the first 
settlement of the country ; yet with all these advan- 
tages, found it necessary to leave his profession, 
and go into a line of life, which required no abilities 
but a vast deal of drudgery to transact. He soon 
failed, and was persuaded to study law ; for which 
he had no great inclination at first, but afterwards 
made a sViining figure at the bar, and upon the the- 
atre where politicians act their parts. He was re- 
presentative for Boston when the first acts were 
made to raise a revenue. Being a genuine whig he 
opposed every measure of the British parliament 
against the constitution of his country. He also 
wrote a pamphlet, entitled "the sentiments of British 
Americans," which is read with pleasure at the pre- 
sent day. It was particularly levelled against the 
navigation act, but contains general remarks, and 
well adapted to the limes. Mr. T. also published 
a pamphlet, *' considerations upon reducing the va- 
lue of the gold coins within the province." It con- 
tained the substance of several pieces he wrote in 
the newpapers in opposition to the opinion of gov, 
Hutchinson. The controversy is ably discussed in 
Minot's continuation of the history of Massachu- 
setts. The health of Mr. Thacher declined from 
the time of his receiving the small pox, in 1764o 
Pulmonary complaints succeeded, and he died, Ju^ 
ly 8th, 1765. 



TOR 455 

He was a man of strict integrity, highly esteem- 
ed by his fellow citizens for his moral worch, as well 
as his legal knowledge. His death was universally 
lamented as a great loss to the publick. He left two 
sons who have since made a figure in their profes- 
sion, rev. Peter Thacher,* who died 1802, pastor of 
the church in Brattle street, and rev. Thomas 
Thacher, pastor of a church in Dedham. 

Thomson William, pastor of the church in 
Braintree, is called by Dr. Mather, one of the A- 
merican pillars. He came from Lancashire into 
New England. He first went to Virginia, but was 
too much of a puritan to find his labours acceptable 
there. He was a very acceptable preacher in these 
parts, where his sentiments were more congenial to 
the publick opinion. This good man was unhappy 
in his mind, a prey to melancholy, and under great 
temptation to commit suicide. He prayed earnest- 
ly to be brought out of darkness, the pastors and 
brethren of the neighbouring churches poured out 
their cries and supplications for him, and his end 
was peace. He died, Dec. 20, 1666. It is said 
that he was an author of some reputation, but ex- 
cept one or two prefaces to the books of others, 
none of his publications have come down to us. 

ToEREY William, one of the first settlers of 
Massachusetts, was one of our earliest authors. 
The place where he fixed his abode was Weymouth, 
and he was active in calling the rev. T. Thacher to 
be pastor of their church. He was appointed a jus- 
tice of peace, " with a power to marry." He was 
one of the first military officers in the colony. When 
he received a commission to be captain of the train 
band, it was as high a rank as was then known. 
He was a man of very considerable learning, and 
wrote a book upon the Millenium. It is entitled, 
** a discourse concerning futurities to come written 
by a very old man, in continual expectation of his 

• For the details of the character of the rev. Peter Thacher, 
D. D. see the close of the 8th vol. Historical Collections. 



456 TOR 

translation into another life and world." It was a 
4to- about 60 pages. A second edition was printed 
in 8vo. in 1757, with a preface by Mr. Prince. 

ToRREY Samuel, son of William Torrey, was 
an eminent scholar and divine. His school learning 
he received from his father who understood latin 
very well. He entered Harvard College, and would 
have taken his degree in 1650, but left cpUege with 
a number of others, because a law was made, re- 
quiring the students to stay 4 years in order to re- 
ceive their degrees. He soon preached, and was 
invited to settle at Weymouth, 1656, where he con. 
tinned 51 years a faithful, laborious, exemplary min- 
ister, tie had such a gift in prayer that he was al- 
ways chosen upon publick occasions, as Mr. Prince 
tells us '* to bring up the rear of their religious ex- 
ercises." Upon a publick fast in the year 1696, he 
prayed two hours after all the other exercises were 
over, and was so pertinent, so regular, so natural, 
so free, lively and affecting, that towards the end, 
hinting at some new and agreeable scenes of thought, 
we could not help wishing him to enlarge upon 
them. This was the language of that eminent law- 
yer, Mr. Read, to Mr. Prince. He was a student 
of college, at the time, and he said his fellow stu- 
dents regretted that he did not pray an hour longer. 

Mr. T. was invited to preach the election sermon 
three times, in 1674, 1683, 1695, and the discours- 
es are excellent. He was a person " of such deep 
and extensive views that the governourand council 
would send for him to come 15 miles, to help them 
with his advice and wise observations. His inti- 
mate friends were gov. Stoughton, Judge Sewall, 
rev. Mr. Moodey, Willard, Hobart of Newtown and 
Thacher of Milton. His wife was the daughter of 
secretary Rawson. Although he never had the hon- 
our of a degree at college, yet upon the death of 
president Rogers in 1686, he was chosen to succeed 
him, but excused himself from accepting that hon- 
ourable station ; Iput acted a number of years as feU 



T R U 4S7 

tow of the corporation. He died, April 10, 1707, 
etat. 76. 

Mr. Prince says his father was " an instance of 
what eminent men of the civil order once adorned 
our New England churches." We may observe, 
that the son was an instance of what our divines 
were a century tigo, when the first gentleman of the 
civil order so highly respected them ; Mr. Pember- 
ton likewise alludes to the death of Mr. Torrey, 
when he says " we had not dried our eyes for the 
loss of our Samuel^ when Providence opens anew 
the fountain of our tears by afflicting us with the 
news of another."* 

Treadwell DANit L, an eminent mathemati- 
cian, was born at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, 
his parents came from Ipswich, Massachusetts. He 
was graduated at Harvard College, 1754. He was 
elected professor of mathematicks in King's Col- 
lege, New York, the same year he took his degree 
at Cambridge, to which place he was recommend- 
ed by Mr. professor Winthrop. He died a few 
years after greatly lametited. In Chandler's life of 
president Johnson, after speaking of their obtaining 
this excellent young man to be professor, he says, 
" in the year 1759, there was a private commence- 
ment on account of the small pox. The president 
spent the winter at Stratford, but under great anxi- 
ety of mind, for he left Mr. Treadwell, the mathe- 
matical professor in a declining state of health, 
which soon turned to a consumption, and put a pe- 
riod to his life early in the spring." 

Trumbull Jonathan, governour of Connecti- 
cut, was a descendant from the eajly settlers of New 
England. Two brothers, of the name, came from 
the west of England into the Massachusetts colony. 
The one fixed at Charlestown, the other at Ipswich. 
The father of gov. Trumbull was a substantial far- 
mer in the town of Lebanon in Connecticut. When 
he was a young man he went to this place, and was 
* Sermon upon Mr. Willard- 

3 L 



458 T R U 

one of the first settlers in the year 1700, He emi- 
grated from Westfield in the county of Hampshire, 
where his father had removed from Ipswich, who was 
a^iong tl^ most respectable of the yeomanry. The 
governour was born at Lebanon in 1710. In the 
year 1723, he entered Harvard College. He early 
discovered fine talents and a most amiable disposi- 
tion. He was a modest ingenuous youth, very bash- 
ful when he first entered college, owing to his ten- 
der years, as well as retired situation ; but he was 
much beloved by his classmates, and when he took 
his degree, one of the finest scholars, with such 
accomplishments as qualified him to be useful, as 
well as to make the most conspicuous fiu;ure. He 
was fond of the study of divinity, and for some 
years was a preacher of the gospel ; he then turned 
his attention to jurisprudence, and soon became an 
eminent civilian. It is an observation of Mr. 
Hutchinson *' that many of the first characters in 
Massachusetts were at first probationers for the 
ministry, and afterwards made a figure at the bar, 
or in the legislative or executive courts of the pro- 
vince." We recollect the names of Stoughton, 
Read, Gridley and judge Stephen Sewall. That gen- 
tleman adds, that when persons have been ordained 
they ought *' to have very special reasons to leave 
the profession for a civil employment." We have 
seen an instance of this in gov. Saltonstall, where 
the publick was much benefitted. 

Gov. Trumbull was employed in many civil offi- 
ces all of which he executed with great fidelity, and 
grew in the esteem of the people as he advanced in 
years. He was an active man in publick life, 51 
years ; 15 of which he was governour of Connecti- 
cut colony. When he first went into this office it 
required a man of prudence, firmness, consistency, 
and ability to manage affairs. A good pilot is ne- 
cessary for every bark which sails on the tempes- 
tuous sea. In Connecticut the appearance was 
more tranquil than the neighbouring province, but 



T R U 45$ 

the clouds were gathering which soon darkened the 
face of the country. Gov. Trumbull saw the storm 
burst upon Massachusetts in 1775 ; he lived to sec 
the auspicious day, also, when his country enjoyed 
the blessings of peace, and the glory of her inde- 
pendence. No man could guide the vessel of state 
with more care. No man ever loved his country 
more. During the whole American war, he showed 
himself the honest and unshaken patriot, the wise 
and able magistrate. In an excellent speech he 
made to the general assembly, October, 1783, he 
thus expresses himself, " I have to request the fa- 
vour of you, gentlemen, and through you, of alt the 
freemen of the state, that after May next, 1 may be 
excused from any further service in publick life, 
and from this time I may no longer be considered 
As an object for your suffrages for any publick em- 
ployment. The reasonableness of the request 1 am 
persuaded will be questioned by no one. The 
length of time I have devoted to their service, with 
my declining state of vigour and activity, will I 
please myself form for me a sufficient and unf?.iling 
excuse with my fellow citizens." 

This excellent man departed this life on the 17th 
of August, 17b5, at his seat in Lebanon in the 75th 
year of his age. His father had lived the same num- 
ber of years. 

Gov. Trumbull made a great collection of papers, 
mss. &c. which were presented by the family to the 
Massachusetts historical society, several of them 
have been printed in the volumes of their collections. 
They consider the whole as an invaluable treasure. 
Among their honorary members, and truly honour- 
able men is the present Jonathan Trumbull, esq, 
the eldest sou of his late excellency, and the pre- 
sent worthy governour of Connecticut.* 

* Mons. Chastelleux, who saw f^ov. Trunibull when he was 
70 years old, writes, " He was governour by excellence, for he 
had been so 15 years, having been rcchosen every two years, and 
equally possessing the public esteem, under the British govern- 
ment and that of congress. His whole life is devoted loliwsiness,. 



460 T U C 

TucKEB John, D. D. a celebrated divine anc] 
Controversial writer, was graduated at Harvard Col- 
lege, 1741, and ordained over the first church at 
]Nevvbury in 1745. He was a man of very superi- 
our abilities, and having pursued his studies with 
diligence, he shone with a mild, engaging, as well 
as brilliant lustre amidst the stars ot our churches. 
Being a man ot" inquiry, like some of his great pre- 
decessors, he was subjected to vexations and trials, 
on account of his opinions, which diflFered from 
the generality of the neighbourhood. He had too 
fair a mind to disguise his sentiments and too much 
honour and liberality to impose them on otliers. He 
never willingly entered into a theological dispute, 
but whenever he was called upon to defend his 
tenets, did it with boldness and skill, as a reason - 
er, a man of pious sentiment, a divine filled with 
christian candour, and influenced by the love of re- 
ligion. No man was less opinionated, or discovered 
more pleasantness, good humour and good man- 
ners in social intercourse. In his writings, how- 
ev«^r, upon controverted points, while he treated the 
subject with reverence, he indulged a vein of hu- 
mour and satire, against his antagonist which gave 
a keen edge to his style, and made dry arguments 
entertaining. This appears in a work of his, enti- 
tled, '* a brief account of an ecclesiastical council so 
called, convened in the first parish of Newbury, 
March 31, 1767." They had several sessions, and 
he printed an account of each session as soon as it 
was ended ; and at the conclusion of the whole, a 
sermon, Acts xx. 17, 18, " being a minister's ap- 
peal to his hearers as to his life and doctrine." Mr. 

which he passionately loves, whether important or not, or rather 
Tvith respect to him there is none ot tlie hitter description. He 
lias all the simplicity in his chess, all the importance and even all 
the pedantry, becoming the great magistrate of a small republic. 
He brought to my mind, the bingomasters of Holland, the Hein- 
siuses and the l^arneveldts," &c. 

He mentioned several other things mingled with the mistakes 
of a iraYellcr. 



TUC 461 

Aaron Hutchinson on« of the council preached, and 
wrote against him, which he answered very lively, 
keen and pointed remarks. 

Another spiritual adversary of Mr. T. was the 
rev. Jonathan Parsons of Newbury port. Those 
who were disaffected to Mr. T. went over to his 
church, and were aided by him, in making excep- 
tions to their minister's preaching until they be- 
come, as thorns in his side. In the year 1757 Mr. T. 
printed a pamphlet " observations on the doctrines 
and wncharitableness of the rev. Jonathan Parsons," 
8ic. These were followed by another pamphlet 
several years after, in which he vindicated the civil 
government of this province from that gentleman's 
severe charges of spiritual tyranny and slavery. 
This was printed 1774, Mr. P. made no reply. Mr. 
Tucker had another controversy with a gentleman 
i»i the neighbourhood, a very respectable clergy- 
man, and zealous calvinist. This was managed 
with more gravity and respectful attention to the 
character of a brother in the ministry. In the year 
1767, the rev. James Chandler of Rowley, printed 
a sermon in which was a marginal note aimed at 
what Mr. T. had written concerning" confessions 
of faith." Mr. T. addressed a printed letter to Mr. 
Chandler, in which he spake against making any 
rule of faith, but the bible. To this Mr. Chandler 
replied in a sensible sedate manner, but defended, 
with some zeal, the doctrines of the New England 
churches, and the propriety of creeds and confes- 
sions, 8<.c. This produced a " second letter from 
Mr. Tucker in reply to Mr. Chandler's vindica- 
tion," 1768, 54 pages. 

The same year Mr. T. was chosen to preach the 
convention sermon ; he also preached the election 
sermon, 1771 ; and the Dudleian lecture, 1778.* 

• Beside the publications above mentioned, he printed four ser- 
mons upon evancjehcal su!)jects, and a thankscjivini; Kcrinon in 
3 756. Stvet-al ordination sermons and otl>er occasional dico.irscsi. 
Also a seimon, Mark xv-. 15, 16 : on Jolm vi. 44, 1769. 



462 U S H 

The university of Harvard presented hini widi his 
diploma of doctor in divinity. 

The latter years of his life he suffered much from 
ill health, but was not wholly taken off from his la- 
bours till within a few months of his death, which 
event took place on the 22d of March, 1792. 

Undlrhill John, capt. one of the first planters 
of Massachusetts, was the friend of sir Henry Vane, 
and sent by him, as commander of the colojiy troops 
to Say brook in 1637. He made the attack with 
capt. Mason upon their fort at Mistick, where the 
fierce spirit of that tribe was broken by the loss of 
so many men as were then destroyed ; even SassacuS 
was discouraged, and fled to the Mohawks, and ve- 
ry soon those Indians, as a tribe, were extinguish- 
ed. In 1641, Underbill was chosen governour of 
Exeter and Dover, but his honours did not set well 
upon him; he was soon in deprest circumstances. 
Gov. Winthrop tells a long story of his setting up- 
on a stool of repentance in the Boston church, with 
a white cap upon his head, and making a confession- 
of his sins. His character was very excentrick in 
many things, and in whatever he did he run to ex- 
cess. He was a very great enthusiast in religion, 
but a debauchee in practice. It is surprising, how- 
ever, that when he was accused of such immorali- 
ties, the church censure did not rest wholly upon 
these. One great crime was that he dated his con- 
version from a time he was smoking tobacco. 
Hence they thought it not sincere. It was necessa- 
ry to be under the " preaching of the word." 

After seeing many changes, capt. Underbill left 
the New England provinces, and died among the 
Dutch at Manhadoes. IVinthrop. 

Usher John, lieut. governour of New Hamp- 
shire, was counsellor of Massachusetts after their 
charter was taken away, and when Dudley had a 
commission as president, in 1686. The same year 
we find his name among the counsellors of sir Ed- 
mund Andross. He was also treasurer of this pro- 



VAN 463 

vince, and it is said he was of eminent service in 
purchasing the district of Maine. By some he was 
held up to public odium, as an enemy to New En- 
gland, one who was ready to sacrifice their charter 
rights for the sake of his own aggrandizement. By 
others he is represented as just and honest, a true 
lover of the country, though on the side of prerog- 
ative. While he was lieut. governour of New 
Hampshire he was not a popular character, perhaps 
his own interest led him to act against the interest 
of the people. He had married the daughter of 
Samuel Allen, esq. and therefore had every tempta- 
tion to assist in maintaining the large claims of the 
family. After he was dismissed from the govern- 
ment, he left that province, and retired to his estate 
at Medford, near Boston, where he died, Sept. 1st, 
1726, etat. 79. 

Vane sir Hbnry, was the son of sir H. Vane, 
who was in king Charles's court. A very pious 
man, but no fanatick. His son was equally fanati- 
cal in politicks and religion. Displeased with the 
jnanners of men in his own country, he came into 
New England. In 1635, on the 3d of March, he 
was made a freeman of the colony. In 1636, he 
was chosen governour. The Boston people were 
very fond of him. The country people did not 
like him, and the next year exerted themselves to 
put him out of office. This caused some goads 
to his earthy nature though his friends pretended 
that, in his mind, all was heaven. His religion 
was pure antinomianism. His adherents said that 
sanctification was no evidence of justification, and 
that there was no such thing as personal holiness. 
Many of them settled Rhode Island. Sir Henry 
went to England, warmly espoused the cause of O. 
Cromwell, was an hot headed zealot, an enemy to 
the presbyterians as well as royalists. He was a 
man tossed about by new opinions, and the mere 
sport of his feelings worked up to a kind of spirit- 
ual ardour. His ideas of Christ's imputation, led 



464 V A S 

him to believe universal salvation, which indeed 
is very consistent with antinomian principles. 
And he was as zealous in diffusing his ideas, that 
all men should be happy, as he had been to prove that 
none but he and a very few others should be saved. 

When the royal party prevailed, and Charles II. 
ascended the throne, Vane had no idea that he 
should be excepted from the act of indemnity. He 
was executed for treason, June 14, 1662. '* His 
enthusiasm," says Mr. Hume, excited by the pros- 
pects of ejlory, embellished the conclusion of a life, 
which, through the whole course of it, had been so 
much disfigured by the prevalence of that principle. 
In all his behaviour, there appeared a firm and ani- 
mated intrepidity, and he considered his death but 
as a passage to that eternal felicity, which he be- 
lieved prepared for him." 

Sir Henry left some writings, mostly religious. 
Men of reason and sentiment may wonder how so 
great a man could write so weakly, or so crude- 
ly. All are not alike unintelligible : '* The mys- 
tery of godliness, written by sir H. Vane, con- 
tains serious and good obser vations. A copy of 
it, is in the historical library. Some have thought 
the father of our governour was the authour. 

Vassall William, the 18th associate men- 
tioned in the charter of Massachusetts, came over 
as the 5th assistant. Mr. Prince says, that although 
one of the patentees and assistants, yet in the lists 
of the courts he could not find his name mentioned. 
He returned to Lngland in the year 1631. A few 
years afterwards he returned to New England, and 
settled at Scituate, in Plymouth colony. When Jamai- 
ca was taken, he laid the foundation of the great es- 
tates which his posterity enjoyed till the revolution. 
William and his brother Samuel Vassall were less 
puritanical than those friends on the new plantation, 
and soon manifested their difference of opinion. 
When the Browns carried their complaints home 
against Endicot, and the matter was referred to cer- 



WAL 465 

tain gentlemen, Samuel and William Vassal were 
two of the referees, chosen by the complainants ; 
Winthrop, Johnson, &cc. were chosen by the com- 
pany. Hutchinson and Prince. 

Wadswobth Benjamin, president of Harvard 
College, was the son of capt. Samuel Wadsworth, 
who was killed at Sudbury in 1676. He was born 
at Milton in 1669 ; was graduated 1690, and or- 
dained pastor of the first church in Boston, 1696. 
In July, 1725, he was installed president of the col- 
lege. His mind was rather strong than brilliant, as 
a preacher he was grave, but not animated. He de- 
livered his sermons without notes, and his memory 
was so tenacious, that on all occasions he could 
quote any chapter or verse of the bible, without re- 
curring to the pages. Hence he retained all the 
learning he acquired in his youth, which was of 
great advantage to him, when he was president. 
The general opinion, however, was that he was bet- 
ter fitted for the pastor of a church, than to be mas- 
ter of the school of the prophets. He had confined 
his studies to theology, and was not a man of exten- 
sive erudition, or much acquainted with the scien- 
ces. He departed this life March 16, 1737, etat, 68.* 

Walter Nehemiah, was born in Ireland, De- 
cember, 1663, where he had the rudiments of his 
education. When he was 13 years old, he could 
converse in latin fluently. About the year 1680, 
his father came into Jsew England, and put his 
son under the care of the celebrated Cheever, 
who declared the lad to be completely fitted 
for college. He was graduated 1684. After leav- 
ing college, he went to Nova Scotia, for the sake of 
learning French, and he was so fond of the Ian 

• His works are a discourse on ihe last judgment, 1709; a 
small volume of sermons in 12 mo. 1711, Luke 14, 16; an ar- 
tillery election sermon, 1700; election sermon, 1716 ; twelve 
sermons in 1717 ; and in 1718, an essay for spreading the gospel 
into ignorant places ; three sermons in 1722 ; pne in 1725 ; alsD 
an essay upon the decalogue ; and fourteen sermons upon a goo4 
cpnsciecce : a discourse opon the christiap S^^jba^h. 
3 M 



^6^ WAL ^^ ^,^1*; 



i^^ 



guage, that he afterwards procured many French 
authours ; and he conversed so much with the pro- 
testant refugees, that he could preach to them in 
their native tongue. In 1688, Oct. 1 7, he was ordain- 
ed over the first church in Roxbury. The old apostle, 
John Kliot, hearing him preach, declared he must 
have him for his colleague, Mr. Dudley opposed 
so sudden an invitation, but approved the choice 
■when tliey had farther proof of his talents. He con- 
tinued the pastor of this church above 60 years, and 
died September 17, 1750, aged 87. Mr. Eliot died 
in 1690, having been minister 58 years. He said of 
Mr. Walter, that he would be a most brilliant light 
of the New England churches. He was indeed an 
admirable preacher, as well as fine scholar. His 
discourses were always studied, and he delivered 
them with great animation, though with a feeble 
voice. He always had a very delicate bodily frame ; 
and was very small of stature. His character and 
preaching were often the subject of praise to young 
candidates. When he was very old he preserved 
the affection of the people, and the esteem of the 
publick. Being a meek and humble christian, he 
had his conversation in the simplicity of truth, and 
sincerity of the gospel. Mr. W. never put himself 
forward to preach upon publick occasions, and was 
seldom persuaded to print any of his discourses. 
He published several, however, which were very ac- 
ceptable, and are read to the present time.* 

* A sermon warning unfruitful hearers, which has been re- 
printed ; also, the body of sin anatomised ; a discourse upon 
vain thoughts ; the great concern of man ; the wonderfulness of 
Christ; the holiness of heaven; and the convention sermon, 1723. 
A volume of his sermons was printed after his death, upon the 55 
of Isaiah, with an account of him, from which the compiler has 
taken some facts. Other notices were communicated by those 
who knew him. To these might be added Dr. Colman's opin- 
ion," when one is hearing Mr. VV. it seems as if any man could 
preach so, yet few can equal him." Mr. Pemberton used to say, 
" I know no man that, in his preaching, reconciles perspicuity 
with accuracy, like Mr. Walter." 



WAL 467 

* Walter Thomas, son of the minister of Rox- 

^ury, was s^raduated at Harvard College, 1713, was 
■ordained his father's colleague, October 19, 1718, 
and died January 10, 1724. He possessed a very 
extraordinary genius, having all his father's vivacf- 
ty and richness of imagination, with more vigour 
of intellect. When he was at college he was not a ' 
hard student, and was too fond of company. His 
intimate associate was John Checkley, who had 
much learning with his wit and humour. This was 
a grief to his father ; and his uncle Dr. Cotton 
Mather who warned him to beware of that man ; 
4 but however he might be attached to his friend for 
jv his companionable qualities, he soon entered into a 
^ publick altercation with him upon theological senti- 
^ ments. Checkley wrote certain dialogues upon pre- 
destination, in which he threw sarcasms upon the re- 
ligion of our fathers, which Mr. W. answered.* 
Dr. Chauncy in his account of eminent men, says, 
*' there was no subject but what Mr. Walter was 
eminently acquainted with, and such was the pow- 
er he had over his thoughts and words, that he 
could readily, without any pains, write or speak just 
as he would ; that he made himself master of all ][ 
Dr. Cotton Mather's learning, by taking frequent * 
opportunities of conversing with him ; and that had 
he not died in the prime of life, he would have been 
^ known as one of the first of our great men." 



"• In the year 1719, 20, an anonymous pamphlet was publish- 
ed, entitled, Choice dialogues between a godly minister, and an 
honest countryman, concerning election and predestination, de- 
tecting- the false principles of a certain man, who calls himstlf a 
presby terian ot the church of England. By a reverend and labo- 
rious pastor in Christ's flock, by one who has been for almost 
twice thirty years, a faithful and painful labourer in C<hrist's vine- 
yard. 

This was answered in a book of about 80 pages duo. entitled, 
a choice dialogue between John Faustus, a conjurer, and Jack 
Tory his friend, occasioned by some choice dialogues lately pub- 
lished concerning predestination, £tc. By a young stripling. The 
author was well known. 



468 WAR 

He excelled also "in the Science of harmony,'* 
and printed a book upon the ground work of mu- 
sick, with the rules which have been generally in 
use. His book was a standard work in New Eng- 
land, near half a century. The tunes he collected 
were introduced into our churches when there was re- 
gular singing, and his rules taught in the schools. 
He also published a sermon upon 2 Samuel, xxiii. 1, 
•' The sweet psalmist of Israel." A more beauti- 
ful composition does not exist among the occasion- 
al sermons handed down to us from our fathers. It 
discovers much learning as well as pious sentiment. 
This sermon was preached at the Boston lecture, 
1723, and printed at the desire of the ministers. It 
is dedicated to judge Dudley. The next year he 
published a *' a sermon upon the scriptures, being 
the only rule of faith and practice." This was also 
jpreached at the Boston lecture, and was very accept- 
able to the publick. 

Ward Nathaniel, an eccentrick genius, and 
learned divine, was the son of the rev. John Ward 
of Haverhill, and born 1570. He was educated at 
the university of Cambridge, and came into this 
country, 1634. He settled as pastor of the church 
at Ipswich, then called Agawam. In 1641, he was 
invited by the freemen to preach the election ser- 
mon. This was rather a political than an evangeli- 
cal discourse, according to iVIr. Winthrop, in which 
he has been imitated by preachers in modern times. 
It is a good observation, and has been often repeated, 
" that the election sermon is the pulse by which we 
can tell the state ot the body politick." Mr. W. 
had been bred a lawyer, was a traveller, and knew 
so much of the law of nature and nations that he 
was employed to draw up a code of laws for New 
England. Though a pious man he was very eccen- 
trick in his conduct. He soon left his charge at 
Ipswich, was without employment for some tiihe, 
and returned to England in 1647. He was after- 
wards a settled minister at Sheffield, The account 
of his death is in 1653. 



4 w" H 

WAR 469 I 

His works are curious and scarce. The book en- 
titled the " simple cobler of Agawam," which he %' 
wrote at Ipswich, and printed afterwards in his na- ^P 
tive country, is a medley of wit and humour, origi- 
nal observation in a strange style, and obsolete lan- 
guage ; yet interesting the attention, where we can- *^- 
not approve the remarks. He was an enemy to tol- 
eration in every shape, a great bigot to his own 
opinions, and wonderfully ingenious and satirical 
iigainst those of a different opinion. 

He wrote other books of humour, and some learn- 
ed treatises, but none have come down to the pre- 
sent age, but the " simple cobler," which has pass- 
ed through many editions. JVinthrop. 

Ward John, son of the famous Nathaniel Ward, 
was born in England, 1606, before his fiither left 
Haverhill. The place where he settled in this colo- 
ny, was called Haverhill, a pleasant spot on Merri- 
mack river, where he continued a faithful pastor 
from 1646 to the year 1694. He preached Nov. 19, 
of this year, being then in the 88th year of his age, 
and died of paraly tick affections, Dec 27. Magnjlia. 
Ward Artemas, major general of the Ameri- 
can army, deserves a distinction among those patri- 
ots who exerted themselves in the cause of liberty, 
and for the independence of their country. He was 
a gentleman of liberal education, having received 
the honours of Harvard College in the year 1748. 
He was an active and useful member of the general 
court for several years ; and one of the provincial 
congress in 1774. He had served in the war pre- 
vious to the peace of Paris. When the revolution, 
ary war commenced, he was the first officer in rank, 
and commanded the troops at Cambridge till gen. 
Washington arrived. No man could show more 
firmness and intrepidity than he did upon some 
trying occasions. When Washington was general- 
issimo, he was the first major general, and com- 
manded the division at Roxbury. Gen. Thomas 
and gen. Heath were brigadier generals. He re- 



470 WAR 

signed his commission in 1777, and went into the 
civil line. He was chosen one of the Council of 
Massachusetts, and was highly esteemed for his po- 
litical integrity, his independency of spirit, and stea- 
dy attention to the duties of his station. In 1786, 
he was speaker of the house of representatives ; and 
chief justice of the court of common pleas for the 
county of Worcester. A lawless mob, with Wheel- 
er and Convers at their head, arose to unhinge the 
government, and stood at the door of the court 
house with bayonets fixed to oppose the court. 
Gen. Ward behaved with coolness and intrepidity, 
and used every wise method to bring them to con- 
sideration.* After the constitution of the United 
States was established, he was a member of con- 
gress, and then retired to private life, where he liv- 
ed some years, receiving honour and respect from 
the people. He died at Newbury in the year 1800. 

Warham John, came over with the company 
from the west of England, who settled the town of 
Dorchester in Massachusetts, in 1630. He and Mr. 
Maverick continued together for six years. He then 
went to Connecticut and laid the foundation of the 
town of Windsor, and continued vith this people 
till his death, the 1st of April, 1670. He was the 
only minister who used notes in his preaching, but 
was more animated in his delivery than most of his 
brethren, and was a very excellent divine, lie was 
subject to hypochondriack complaints, which had 
such an effect upon him at times, as to fill his mind 
with spiritual gloom. He frequently administered 
the communion without partaking of it, thinking 
himself unworthy, when no one else doubted his 
qualifications. Magnolia, 

Warren Joseph, major general of the Ameri- 
can army, was born at Roxbury. His parents were 
respectable, and in that place he received the first 
rudiments of his education. He entered Harvard 
College when he was but 15 years old, and receiv- 

• Minot's history of the insurrection in Massachusetts. 



WAR 471 

ed the honours of that seminary in 1759 and 176:J. 
Having turned his attention to medical studies, he was 
soon qualified for the practice, and in the year 1764, 
when the small pox spread through Boston, and 
vast numbers were inoculated, he was among the 
physicians, who were most eminent in the profes- 
sion. Had he confined his views to professional 
business he might have enjoyed the affluence of 
wealth, with a high reputation. He certainly was 
happy in the affection of a numerous part of this 
town, who had the most lively opinion of his human- 
ity and skill. His fine address, as well as his taste 
for philosophy and the belles lettres, gained him the 
esteem and regard of the polite and learned, while 
his frank, open disposition, and obliging attention 
to persons under various circumstances of human 
distress, caused him to be greatly beloved by those 
who tread the humble walks of life. But his mind 
was too ardent and active to be confined to the du» 
ties of a profession, and he was a strsinger to the 
passion of avarice. He soon had an opportunity to 
show his talents as a fine writer, and also his elo- 
quence and patriotick zeal. These were manifest- 
ed upon many occasions from the year the stamp 
act was passed, to the time of the war which sepa- 
rated the colonies from the parent country. He was 
in the class of bold politicians^ as they were then dis- 
tinguished from the moderate whigs. While some 
made a distinction between internal and external 
taxes ; while many were sending petition after peti. 
tion to the foot of the throne ; while the generality 
of the people dreaded a war on account of our want 
of resources, and the omnipotence of the British na- 
tion ; he felt superiour to these fears and despised 
the suppliant tone of children to mother Britain; 
he was uniform in his opinion that every kind of 
taxation was complete tyranny ; and it was a com- 
mon expression with him, that we could fight our 
own battles, if Great Bricain sent her armies over 
the Atlantick. He was persuaded that they never 



472 WAR 

would send large armies, in which he would have 
found himself mistaken, had he lived a few years 
longer ; but allowing they made ever so great ex- 
ertions to conquer America, they could only, in his 
opinion, destroy the seaports ; they would not be 
able to penetrate into the country ; and he said that 
we ou2;ht to make anv sacrifices rather than sub- 
mit to arbitrary and oppressive measures ; or be so 
mean and pusillanimous as to tremble at the rods 
which would continually be shaken over our heads. 
From the year 1768, a number of politicians met 
at each other's houses to discuss publick aifairs, and 
to settle upon the best methods of serving the town 
and country. Many of these filled publick offices. 
But the meetings were private, and had a silent in- 
fluence upon the publick body. In 1772 they agreed 
to increase their number, to meet in a large room, 
and invite a number of substantial mechanicks to 
join them, and hold a kind oi caucus., pro bono pub- 
lico. They met in a house near the north battery, 
and more than 60 were present at the first meeting. 
Their regulations were drawn up by Dr. Warren 
and another gentleman, and they never did any 
thing important without consulting him and his par- 
ticular friends. It answered a good purpose to get 
such a number of mechanicks together ; and though 
a number of whigs of the first character in the town 
were present, they always had a mechanick for mod- 
erator, generally one who could carry many votes 
by his influence. It was a matter of policy likewise 
to assemble at that part of the town. It had the 
effect to awalce the north ivind, and stir the waters 
of the troubled sea. By this body of men the most 
important matters were decided — they agreed who 
should be in town offices, in the general court, in 
the provincial congress, from Boston. Here the 
committees of publick service were formed, the 
plan for military companies, and all necessary means 
of defence. They met about two years steadily at 
one place. After the destruction of the tea, the 



WAR *''^*- 473 

place of assembling was known, and they met at the 
Green Dragon in the spring of 1775, with as ma- 
ny more from the south end, and the records of 
their proceedings are still preserved. The writer 
of these memoirs has been assured by some of the 
most prominent characters of this caucus, that they 
were guided by the prudence and skilful manage- 
ment of Dr. Warren, who, with all his zeal and irri- 
tability, was a man calculated to carry on any secret 
business ; and that no man ever did manifest more 
vigilance, circumspection and care. In every coun- 
try there are politicians, who are the mere cymbals 
of the mob, and answer some good purpose, when 
they are not left to. themselves In this country, 
through all stages of the revolution, we had many 
such, who, to their own imagination, appeared to di- 
rect the affairs of the publick. Such men were 
never admitted to be members of the caucus 
here mentioned ; many of them never knew the 
secret springs^ that moved the great wheels, but 
thought themselves very important characters, be- 
cause they were sons of liberty, and excelled oth- 
ers in garrulity, or made a louder cry upon the 
wharves, or at corners of streets. 

Dr. Warren was twice chosen the publick ora- 
tor of the town, and his orations were among the 
best compositions, as any one will see, who reads 
the volume containing all the orations, spoken on 
the 5th of March. 

At the battle of Lexington, he was perhaps the 
most active man in the field. His soul beat to arms, 
as soon as he learnt the intention of the British 
troops. It is said, in the memoirs of gen. Heath, 
that a ball grazed his hair, and took of part of his 
ear lock. 

He was ready upon every alarm, from this time, 
till he was slain. Nothing could be in a more con- 
fused state than the army which first hastily assem- 
bled at Cambridge. This undisciplined body of 
men were kept together by a few, who deserved well 
3 N 



474 W A R Jm 

of their country. Among them gens. Ward and 
Putnam were disthiguished, the one for his firm, 
prudent conduct, and the other for his romantick 
courage. Dr. W. was perhaps the man who had 
the most influence, and in whom the people in the 
environs of boston and Cambridge placed their 
highest confidence. He did wonders in preserving 
order among the troops. Four days before the bat- 
tle of Bunker's Hill he was appointed major gener- 
al of the American army. When the entrench- 
ments were made at Breed's Hill, he, to encourage 
the men within the lines, went down from Cam- 
bridge, and acted as a volunteer. Col. Pres- 
cot commanded the party within the lines, and col. 
Starks the men who were without, behind a rail 
fence, and did such amazing execution by a well 
directed fire. 

Gen. Warren fell in the trenches, A female his- 
torian of the war tells us, that he chose to die rather 
than be taken prisoner. We are at a loss to know 
how this can be ascertained. We always under- 
stood he was killed outright, and had not at his own 
option any of the circumstances of his death. 

It is true, however, that at all times he discover- 
ed the greatest fortitude and bravery, and, as he liv- 
ed an ornament to his country, his death reflected a 
lustre upon himself, and the cause he so warmly es- 
poused. No person's fall was ever more regretted, 
and yet no one could help feeling the sentimtnty who 
repeated the line 

Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori. 

Had success attended the Americans, his death 
would have been sufficient to damp the joys of vic- 
tory, and the cypress would be blended with the 
laurel. The loss of such a man, in addition to our 
defeat, and at a time when the distracted state of 
our affairs greatly needed his advice, threw a gloom 
upon the circumstances of the people, and excited 
the most sincere lamentation and mourning. The 
elegant, the generous and humane ** all mingled the 



W E A^ ^''••iw 475 

sympathetick tear," and paid their respects to his 
memory. 

Ill the spring of 1776, when the Britisli troops 
-left Boston, his body was brought from Breed^s 
Hill^ where it had lain undistinguished from his 
fellow soldiers, to be entombed in a Boston burial 
place. The sevei-al lodges of free masons preced- 
ed, and multitudes of his fellow citizens followed, 
the corpse. An eloquent orator, a brother mason, 
pronounced the funeral eulogy, in the Stone Chap- 
el. The exordium, addressed to the "Illustrious 
Relicks," had a very strong efiect upon the auditory. 
Gen. Warren had been grand master of free ma- 
sons through North America for a number of years, 
and all the friends cj the craft now highly respect 
his memory. 

Having said, that in private life gen. Warren was 
amiable, we repeat it, that in person, mind, and 
manners he was equally well accomplished. He 
gained the love of those who lived with him in hab- 
its of intimacy, while the publick voice celebrat> 
ed his virtues. With sensibilities uncommonly 
strong, and a zeal which blazed in the cause of lib- 
erty, he was candid, generous, and ready to do kind 
offices to those who had different sentiments con- 
cerning the cor^troversy. There are persons now 
living, who recollect his polite attentions, when 
they' were slighted and wounded by others whose 
minds v. ere -less liberal, or more corroded with par- 
ty spirit. 

Cui pudor, et justitia: soror, 

Incoi rupta fides, nudiuiue Veritas. 

Quaiido iillum invenient parem ? 
Multisille bonis flebilis occidit. 

Weare Meshech, president of New Hamp- 
shire, was descended from respectable ancestors, 
who were concerned in most of the publick and po- 
litical transactions of the province. He himself was 
engaged above 30 years in publick employments, 
ile was first chosen representative, from the town 



'W 



476 W E L 

of Hjlmpton,for the general court. In this place he 
succeeded his father, and was also a magistrate for 
the county. For some years he was speaker of the 
house. In the year 1754, when the American con- 
gress assembled in Albany, he was appointed a com- 
missioner. His knowledge of the law qualified him*- \-^^ 
for a place on the bench of judges of the supreme^ ^^H 
court. In the year 1777, he was appointed chief ** 

justice. During the revolutionary war he was an 
active man in managing the concerns of New Hamp- 
shire. He was annually elected president of the 
body politick, or chief rnagistrate, from 1776 to 
1784, when a constitution was formed for the state. 
Thepeople paid so much respect to him, as to choose 
him their first president, though it was evident his 
age and infirmities required rest from his publick 
labours. He sought retirement, and resigned the 
office before another election. The historian of 
New Hampshire delineates his character,'* as a per- 
son, not of inventive or original genius, but of clear 
discernment, extensive knowledge, accurate judg- 
ment, a calm temper, a modest deportment, an up- 
right and benevolent heart, and a habit of prudence 
and diligence in discharging the various duties of 
publick and private life."* 

Weld Thomas, first pastor of the church in 
Roxbury, came from a town called Tirling, in Es- 
sex. Not being willing to submit to the ceremo- 
nies, as the law required, he was obliged to leave the 
place, and became over to New England, in the year 
1632. He was immediately invited to settle at Rox- 
bury. He was a man of very considerable talents, 
and a favourite vVith the magistrates. He distin- 
guished himself at the trial of Mrs. Hutchinson, be- 
ing one of her principal opposers, and afterwards 
wrote a book to expose the errors of those secta- 
ries. f In Winthrop's journal continual mention is 

* Belknap's history, vol. ii. page 485: 
t The book is cniitled, " short story of the rise, reign and ruin 
of theAminomians, Familists and Libertines, that infested the 



WEN 417 

tnade of the calling upon ministers for advice. 
Weld was always present ; hence we may suppose 
him a very prudent and judicious man, as well as 
good minister. He was bent agent to Great Britain 
with Hugh Peters in 1641, and never returned. 
He went to Ireland with lord Forbes, where he stay- 
ed for some time, and then returned to )iis parish, 
which was a living, in the bishoprick of Durham, 
from which he was ejected in 1662. 

Wentworth John, lieut. governour of New 
Hampshire, was the son of William Wentworth, one 
of the first settlers of the country, an amiable, pious, 
sensible man, who was a ruling elder, and adorned 
his station in the church. The son, a man of 
cnterprize and spirit, was commander of a ship, in 
the early part of his life, and acquired a good estate, 
if not the affluence of wealth. He lived in a style 
of elegance beyond his neighbours, and was more 
of a gentleman in his manners, was popular in his 
address, and received continual marks of publick 
favour. Having been 5 years a counsellor, he was 
appointed lieut. governour. His commission had 
annexed to it the name of Joseph Addison, who was 
then secretary, 17th Dec. 1717. The people were 
satisfied with his administration. They thought 
him more wise and moderate than his predecessors, 
and more attached to their interest. The multitude 
soon distinguish between men whose object it is to 
make the most of an office, and such as love their 
country, or have an eye to the publick good, while 
they are willing in some measure to serve them- 
selves. Selfish men are not fit for publick stations ; 
yet few men are so patriotick as to sacrifice their 

churches of New England." There is an edition of it in 4lo. 
1692, in the Hl)rary of Harvard Collei^e- His other works wtre, 
an" answer to W. R. his narration of opinions and practices oi tlie 
New I- ni^land churches," 4to. 1614; " the perfect Piiarisce un- 
der monkish holiness." This he and three other ministers 
wrote in 1654. It was levelled af^ainst the Quakers; and af. 
terwards they wrote " the false Jew detected," Sic. aijjainst a man, 
who pretended t© be first a Jew, and then an Anabaptist. 



478 WEN 

own concerns entirely. The general asssembJy 
made frequent grants to their lieut. governour, be- 
lieving him to be upright, and that he made every 
exertion to serve the province. He received to- 
kens of affection from them ; but an alienation hap- 
pened in the year 1728» The general assembly had 
continued 5 years, it was dissolved of course when 
king George I. died. A new assembly being call- 
ed, the lieut. governour, not satisfied with their pro- 
ceedings, dissolved them by his authority, which 
was legal, as gov. Burnet had not yet arrived ; but 
it excited acrimonious feelings. These were in- 
creased when the next assembly met, and he nega- 
tived their speaker, Mr. Nathaniel Weare. Nothing 
happened in this dispute, however, to make him fear- 
ful of losing his office. Their opinions varied, and 
they debated with some temper. His conduct was 
approved by Burnet when he was governour of 
New Hampshire as well as Massachusetts. Mr. W. 
had the misfortune to offend gov. Belcher, who was 
very unreasonable in the degree of his resentment. ,^-.; ^ 
The lieut. governour had written letters of friend-i' # 
ship to Mr. Shute and Mr. Belcher while they 
were in England. Belcher received his letter, and 
returned his attentions when he came to "^ ew Hamp- 
shire. But upon learning diat he niade the same 
kind of address to Shute, was very angry, and not 
only refused common civilities, but made use of his 
authority to lessen the importance of his station. 
He said thit Wentworth was guilty of deception. It 
was only that kind of artifice which politicians make 
use of to preserve their places. It was what Belcher 
himself hid practised in some measure to get the gov- 
ernment of Massachusetts, and what his enemies 
used to some purpose, w hen ihey effected his dis- 
missal from his government. It was also bad policy 
on this account ; he put all Wentvvorth's friends in 
opposition to him, who might have been of great 
assistance in his political trials. Mr. Wentworth 
lived not long after Belcher entered on his govern- 



WEN 479 

iiient. He died, Dec. 12, 1730, in the 59th 3'car of 
his age.* Belknap'' s history of Afiu Hampshire. 

Wentworth Benning, governour of New 
Hampshire, was the son of lieut. governour Went- 
worth, and was educated at Harvard College, where 
he was graduated, in 1716. He turned his attention 
to business, and was an eminent merchant in Ports- 
mouth. He was sent to the general assembly, as one 
of the representatives, and advanced to a seat at the 
council board. He was always in opposition to 
Belcher, during his whole administration. When 
New Hampshire was made a distinct government 
he was promoted to the chair in the year 1741. He; 
did many thini^s to render himself popular, and to 
promote the honour of the station, and the prosper- 
ity of the province. A ruler in a popular govern- 
ment may always expect opposition. If he act from 
the purest motives, he will meet with some who en- 
vy his situation, and with others who have claims 
that can never be satisfied. Belcher had also 
friends in New Hampshire, who could feel no very 
great attachment to a man who had uniformly found 
fault with his measures. The enemies of gov. Shir- 
ley were scattered through the New England pro- 
vinces. Wentworth was a great friend to him, and 
this excited an opinion, that he approved his arbitra- 
ry measures. He was a zealous episcopalian, like- 
wise, which caused jealousies among those who 
were attached to the form and discipline of the New 
England churches. With all the opposition from 
political or religious prejudices, he continued his- 
administration longer than any of the other gover- 
nours. This office he resigned in the year 1766, 
and was succeeded by his nephew, whose talents 
added lustre to a family which for many years had 
been the most brilliant in New Hampshire, and 

* A very good portrait of lieut. governour \Vent\vortli is in tlic 
room of the historical society. It was presented by his grai.dson, 
j^v John VVe«>t worth. 



'i^ 



480 

whose amiable qualities gained him the love as well 
as applause of all classes of people. 

Gov. B. Went worth found his situation very un- 
pleasant and his seat very uneasy, the latter part of 
his administration. Such mortifications he only 
shared in common with all who have held high and 
important stations in this or perhaps any country. 
Dr. Belknap observes, that " notwithstanding some 
4^v- instances, in which a want of magnanimity was con- 
^ spicuous, his administration, in other respects, was 
beneficial. Though he was highly censured for 
granting the best lands of the province to the peo- 
ple of Massachusetts and Connecticut, with views 
of pecuniary reward, yet, the true interest of the 
country was certainly promoted ; because the gran- 
tees, in general, were better husbandmen than the 
people of New Hampshire. 

West Samub l, D. D. an eminent divine, meta- 
physical, theological and controversial writer, was 
graduated at Harvard College in the year 1754. 
Some years after he left Cambridge, he was invited 
to take charge of the church at Dartmouth. The 
part of the town in which he settled has since taken 
the name of New Bedford. He was a very extra- 
ordinary person in his way, and his name certainly 
ought to be recorded in every book of American bi- 
ography. His mind was very capacious and strong, 
his reading extensive, and being very communica- 
tive, he frequently instructed and entertained those 
who desired information ; his company was also 
solicited by men of literary taste from all parts 
of the commonwealth. He was peculiarly fond qf 
, associating with those who maintained the cause of 
?% rational religion and christian liberty. His pulpit 
talents alone would not have given him celebrity. 
He had a commanding voice, but knew not how to 
modulate it ; his attitude and manner were very 
uncouth, and he would never attempt to touch the 
passions. His common discourses were carelessly 
written, but, upon publick occasions, when he took 



WES 481 

pains in composincj them, were very excellent. He 
was great as a biblical crltick, and it has been well 
observed, that with the same advantaj^es he " had 
fallen little short of Biixtorf, Mede,Pool, Kenicott,'» 
8s.c.* In politicks he was a zealous whig, and had 
considerable influence in the section of the province 
where he dwelt. During tlie first year of the Amer- 
ican war he was brought into general notice by a 
particular circumstance. There were certain letters 
intercepted which were supposed to contain a secret 
and criminal correspondence with the enemy. He, 
being a curious and philosophical man. was em- 
ployed to decipher them. It was acknowledged by 
the writer, that he did the business correctly. He 
was chosen to preach the election sermon, in 1776. 
The next year, 1777, he preached at Plymouth, 
on the 22d of December. He took a passage from 
the Ixvi. of Isaiah, " Shall a nation be born at 
once ?" and applied it to the independence of Amer- 
ica. Whether the novelty of the sentiment, or the 
truth of the prophecy had the most eftect, it is cer- 
tain, that no sermon was ever more the subject of 
praise. No person, who reads the discourse at the 
present day, can conceive the impressions which 
were then made. To some, however, it appeared 
a playfulness of fancy ; but to \\\m every thing de- 
livered was a solemn reality. He was so tenacious 
of his opinion, that he was hurt if any man express- 
ed a doubt upon the subject. When the conven- 
tion met at Cambridge and Boston, to form a con- 
stitution for the state, he was a leader in several of 
the debates ; and during the whole set>sion was a 
very influential and important member. He was al- 
so a member of the Massachusetts convention which 
adopted the constitution of the United States. He 
preached the Dudleian lecture upon the validity of 
Presbyterian ordination, 1782. The university 
presented him with a diploma of doctor in divinity, 

* Anthology for March, 1303. 
3 O 



482 W H E 

1793. He was one of the original members of the 
American academy of arts and sciences, and an 
honorary member of the philosophical society in 
Philadelphia. The oddities of this good man have 
been frequently the subject of remark, and have ex- 
cited the mirth of humourists. In his days of 
health and vigour such things were lost amidst the 
excellencies of his character, or absorbed in the 
splendour of his reputation ; but in his latter days 
all his foibles were spread and exaggerated. His old 
age was full of infirmities, and his friends could on- 
ly look with pity upon the relicks of a mind which 
was once so superiour as to command admiration. 
He departed this life, Sept. 24, 1807.* 

Wheelock Eleazer, D. D president of Dart- 
mouth College, was educated at Yale College, and re- 
ceived the honours of that seminary, 1733. He was 
ordained pastor of a church in the town of Lebanon ; 
was a minister of extraordinary zeal and pious 
sentiment, and his ministry was blessed with un- 
common success. His active views were not con- 
fined to christian churches, although great revivals 
of religion took place during the course of his min- 
istry, but his ardent mind was employed in the con- 
version of the aboriginals of the land. For this pur- 
pose he opened an Indian charity school in which a 
number of children of the natives might be educat- 
ed, and become missionaries among their several 
tribes. This scheme originated with Mr. John 
Sargeant at Stockbridge, who begun a school, and 
procured assistance from many well disposed and 
liberal gentlemen. He died in 1749, before his 
plan was accomplished. Mr. Wheelock revived 
the business, and called it Moore's school, in hon- 
our to the name of its greatest benefactor. This 

•His other publications were beside occasional sermons, a letter 
upon infant baptism ; essays on liberty and necessity. To these 
Dr. Edwards replied in a volume very ably written. Dr. West 
thought he had mistaken his meaning in some passages, and had 
prepared further illustrations of the subject, but did not live to 
finish the work. 



W H E 483 

school was kept at Lebanon a number of years. 
In 1770, Dr. Wheelock removed it to New 
Hampshire. There he had to subdue the wilder- 
ness, and to instruct Indian youth. Other scholars 
were added, until a greater number of missionaries 
were prepared from the English than the Indians. 
From this institution grew a flourishing college, 
where learned, orthodox ministers were qualifi- 
ed to fill vacant churches. It is now a univer- 
sity in high reputation. The funds, however, 
are kept separate. The money raised in Scotland ^ 
is appropriated, and at this time several Indian ' 
youths are instructed agreeably to what was express- 
ed in the foundation. The first commencement at 
Dartmouth College, was held in 1771. The rev. 
Dr. Wheelock died in 1779, aged 69. His son, the 
hon. John Wheelock, is his worthy successor, and 
also professor of history. 

W^HEELWRIGHT JoHN, OUC of thc mOSt fa- 

mous men in the beginning of the plantations, was 
brother in law to Mrs. Hutchinson, and of the same 
mind concerning justification, though he did not 
pretend to have such peculiar revelations. He had 
a more correct judgment, but not much greater 
stability. He was much attached to her, and was 
involved in her sufferings. In 1637, he was ban- 
ished the colony, having preached a sermon the 
year before at Boston which gave great offence. It 
was pleasing to several members of the Boston 
church of which he was a member, and one of the 
preachers.* A complaint however was made to the 
general court of some things he delivered,as tending 

* Mr. Wheel-.vrighl. minister to a branch of tliat cluirc!), at a 
place since called Braintree (where llie town had so:Tie lands) was 
eager and zealous against a covenant of works ; and was banished 
bv thc court for what was called sedition, by tlie same rule which 
will make every dissent from, or opposition to, a majority in any 
religious affairs to be sedition, and an iniquity to be punished by 
the judge. Tlie minor part must always be seditious, if it be se- 
dition to defend their own opinions, Sec. Callemler's century 
sermon, page 27. 



484 W H E 

to sedition, and disturbance of the plantation. Mr. 
W. put forth a reply to the complaints against him, 
in which he endeavoured to clear the doctrine of the 
sermon from sedition, and declared he only meant 
to explain the doctrine of grace. Huljbard says, 
*' that in this he differed from the sermon, and was 
confuted by some of the ministers with strona: ar- 
guments." But it seems Mr. Cotton replied to 
their answer, and Mr. Wheelwright could not be 
prevailed upon to make any recantation ; which 
might have saved him many difficulties, and pre- 
vented the division of the colony. Some of the 
magistrates signed a petition in favour of their min- 
ister. He was the peculiar friend of Mr. Codding- 
ton, also of Aspinwall and Coggeshall, members of 
the general court from Boston, who were expelled 
the house for signing the petition. Hence a civil 
strife was consequent upon religious contentions. 
It was this which gave rise to a new settlement, and 
a nevv government, at Rhode Island. Mr. W. after 
his banishment went to New Hampshire, and laid 
the foundation of the town and church at Exeter. 
He afterwards went to Hampton, and thence to 
Salisbury. In the year 1644, he wrote to the gov- 
ernour of Massachusetts, made an acknowledgment 
of his offence, and was restored to the favour of the 
people. It has always seemed very strange, that he 
did not go vvith his friends to Rhode Island instead 
of removing to New Hampshire. His conduct in 
New Hampshire discovered an ambitious turn, a 
desire to be chief, and to have that influence over 
the people which his learning and abilities gave him 
some claim to expect. Hence he might prefer be- 
ing where none could appear in competition Avith 
him. The gentlemen who went to Rhode Island 
were shrewd, sensible men ; some of them gifted 
brethren, who thought themselves superiour to their 
teachers. In 1758, Mr. Wheelwright was in Eng- 
land, a great f ivourite with Cromwell ; he then cor- 
responded with his friends in New England. A 



W 1 G 485 

letter to the church of Hampton is preserved. When 
he returned to America is not mentioned ; but he 
lived to be the oldest minister in New England. He 
died in 1680, leaving children who were highly re- 
spectable for their character and stations. His son, 
grandson, and great grandson were counsellors of 
Massachusetts. 

WiGGLEswoRTH Edward, D. D. Hollis pro- 
fessor of divinity at Harvard College, was the son of 
Michael Wigglesworth, pastor of the church at 
Maiden, who was graduated in 1651, and was also 
a fellow of the corporation. He died June 10, 1705, 
aged 7-: . Among his publications was a poem, called 
the " Day of Doom," which has been celebrated by 
good people in New England. It is a curious and 
scarce book. His son Edward was graduated in 
1710, and deserves a place in the highest class of 
his contemporaries. 'Vo an extensive knowledge in 
his profession, he added the ornaments of classical 
literature. He was also as remarkiible for his piety 
as his learning. As a minister of a particular church 
he might not have shone among the popular preach- 
ers ; but he was completely accomplished for the 
chair of divinity professor. As soon as the benev- 
olent and pious Mr. Hollis of London laid a found- 
dation for such a professorship in New England, the 
eyes of the clergy were turned towards Mr. Wig. 
glesworth. Dr. Colman, in a letter to Mr. Hollis, 
speaks of him, " as a man of known and exemplary 
piety, literature, modesty, meekness, and other 
christian ornaments." He was publickly inducted 
into his office, in the college hall, Oct. 24, 1722, 
and in 1724, elected a member of the corporation. 
The university of Edinburgh presented him with a 
diploma of doctor in divinity in the year 1730. Ik- 
was elected rector of Yale College, but declined 
on account of his deafness which also unfitted him 
to shine in conversation, for which he liad fine ta- 
lents. On this account, however, he paid more at- 
tention to his studies, and his lectures \\erc filled 



486 WIG 

with arguments, excellent thoughts, liberal views 
of the christian doctrines, and just discrimination 
of the contested points. His polemical pieces gave 
him a high reputation abroad, as well as in New 
England. The Whitefieldian controversy employed 
the pens of several divines, some of whom exposed 
his vanity and enthusiasm, which he had enough of 
when he was a young man, as he afterwards confess- 
ed ; none wrote in such an engaging and interesting 
manner as professor Wigglesworth. He wrote in 
an animated and nervous style, and mingled the 
glow of resentment with a delicate, satirical mode 
of reproving a man who had endeavoured to blast 
the reputation of an institution, which he knew no- 
thing about. Dr. Wigglesworth wrote his answer to 
Mr. Whitefield's reply to the college testimony, in 
1745. In 1754, he preached two lectures upon " the 
distinguishing characters of the ordinary and extra- 
ordinary ministers of Christ." These were occa- 
sioned by Mr. Whitefield's preaching at Cambridge, 
and were printed at the request of the students.* 

The latter years of Dr. Wigglesworth's life were 
years of infirmity and pain. He was patient and sub- 
missive, an example to those who highly estimated 
his character. He died, January 19, 1765, in the 
73d year of his age. 

Wigglesworth Kdward, D. D. son of the 
iirst HoUis professor of divinity, was graduated at 
Harvard College, 1 749 ; was tutor when his father 
died, and chosen to succeed him in the professor- 
ship. He was a learned man, and very much at- 
tached to the interests of the college. Upon the 
death of Dr. Wnithrop, in 1779, he was elected fel- 
low of the corporation. When the society in Scot- 
land for propagating the gospel among the Indians 

* Other printed worksof Dr. VV. are, lectures upon the punish- 
ment of the wicked ; on the imputation ot Adam's guilt; upon 
reproimtion ; inspiration of tlie O I', trial of t!ie spirits ; Dudle* 
ian lecture, upon the infillibility ol the cluirch of Rome ; also a 
sermon on the death oi president Wadsworth. 



WIL 487 

in North America, established a corresponding 
board in Boston, he was chosen secretary. He re*^ 
ceived a diploma of doctor of divinity from the uni- 
versity of Harvard in the year 1786. 

Dr. Wigglesworth was one of the original mem- 
bers of the American academy of arts and sciences. 

Being unable to attend his professional duties by 
reason of paralytical affections, which greatly debil- 
itated his mind and body, he resigned his professor- 
ship in 1791. But the legislature of the college con- 
tinued him as professor emeritus till his death, in 
1794. 

He published, in the year 1775, ''calculations on 
American population, with a table for estimating the 
annual increase," &c. He printed two ser- 
mons, oue "upon the death of Dr. VVinthrop;" the 
other was the Dudleian lecture " against the errors 
of the church of Rome," 1786. 

WiLLARD Samuel, pastor of the Old South 
church in Boston, and vice president of Harvard 
College, was one of the most celebrated divines of 
Massachusetts. His descent was honourable. His 
father was a member of the council, and at the head 
of the militia.* He sent his son to Harvard Col- 
lege, that he might receive a liberal education. His 
genius was uncommon, and he made such progress 
in his studies, as gave lively hopes of future usefuU 

* In 1654, major Simon Willard commanded the army sent 
against the Narragansetts. The commissioners of the united 
colonies agreed to raise 270 foot and 40 horse. The Indians, 
with Ninigret their sachem, retired into a swamp. Willard did 
not think it prudent to attack them in that situation, and the for- 
ces returned with no other success, than taking a few Fequods 
who had been with the other Indians after tlie destruction of their 
tribe. The commissioners were displeased with this retreat, and 
charged Willard with neglecting an opportunity of humbling the 
pride of Ninigret, which had always been insufferahie, and would 
now be increased. Hutchinson observes, that major Willard, be- 
ing a Massachusetts man, might comply with the views of the 
colony. They were averse from a war with the Indians, or 
Dutch. It was the second time of their preventing an open war, 
contrary to the minds of six commissioners. The court acted 
with more policy, than honour and justice. 



48a W I L 

ness. He v/as settled in the first place at Groton, 
an obscure situation for a man of such e;reat abili- 
ties, who was not only a profound scholar, but 
an eloquent speaker, possessing every qualification 
necessary to give a great man a splendid reputation. 
The place where he dwelt being destroyed by the 
Indians, and the flock of which he was pastor scat- 
tered in the wilderness, he was invited to fix his sta- 
tion in the metropolis, where he became a great 
blessing to the churches, and of eminent service to 
the college. '■ The providence that occasioned his 
removal to this place," says his eulogist, " was an 
awful judgment upon the whole land ; yet was even- 
tually a mercy in this respect, that it made way for 
the translation of this bright star to a more conspic- 
uous orb, where his influence w^as more extensive 
and beneficial ; and in this it was a great blessing 
to this congregation, to this town, and to all New 
England. His common sermons might have been 
pronounced with applause, before an assembly of 
the greatest divines."* But as a writer he has been 
more known to the succeeding generations. He was 
fond of publishing his works, and was called upon 
on all great occasions to deliver his sentiments from 
the pulpit. No divine, except Dr. Cotton Mather, 
in thiis country prepared more works for the press ; 
and they were all calculated to do honour to the au- 
thor, and edify pious people. He died in the 68th 
year of his age, Sept. 12, 1707, having been minis- 
ter of the third church in Boston from April 10, 
1678. t 

• Pemberton's discourses, page 137. 
t His works are numerous- In 1673, he published three ser- 
mons, containing useful instruction for a professing people ; the 
artillery election sermon. 1676 ; a funeral sermon on gov. Leve- 
relt, 1679 ; animadversions upon the liaptists, 168 1. From this 
time to 1690, about 20 sermons, or tracts. In 1682, miscellane- 
ous observations on witchcraft, in a dialogue between S. and B. ; 
in 1693, the covenant of redemption, and rules for discerning the 
limes; in 1594, the election sermon ; and artillery election ser- 
mon m 1599. The same year, a course of sermons upon spirit- 
ual devotions ; in 1 700, a volume of sermons on the bjessed man, 



W I L 489 

WiLLARD JosiAH, secretary of the province of 
Massachusetts bay, son of that famous divine, 
Mr. Samuel Willard, was born in Boston. He 
was graduated at Harvard College, 1698. The 
next year he was chosen tutor, and continued in 
that office till he entered on his travels, having 
visited several parts of the West Indies, and Eu- 
rope, he returned to his own country, improved in 
mind and manners. His piety gave a lustre to 
his moral character, and he appeared with the dit^- 
nity, grace and politeness of the gentleman in his 
private walk, and in every publick station. In 
17 17 he was appointed secretary of the province ; in 
1731, judge of probate ; in 1734 he was elected one 
of his majesty's council. He resigned most of his 
publick offices as he grew into the vale of years ; 
but continued to do hi^ duty as secretary till his 
death. He departed this life, Dec. 6, 1756, in the 
76th year of his age. Dr. Sewall, and Mr. Prince, 
each printed a funeral sermon upon the occasion, in 
which his character is fully delineated. These gen- 
tlemen were intimately acquainted with him ; Mr. 
Prince had been his pupil. 

Williams Roger, minister of the gospel, and 
governour of the Providence plantations, was born 
in Wales, and educated at the university of Oxford. 
He was a minister of the church of England before 
he came to Boston, but disliking the form and gov- 
ernment of the episcopal church, he left his native 
country, and came into this American wilderness. 
Here he expected to enjoy liberty of thinking, and 

and a number of single sermons on particular texts of scripture, 
for particular occasions ; in 1701, a number of sermons upon Sa- 
tan's temptations ; two upon brotherly love,. &c. ; in 1 703. a brief 
reply to Geort^e Keith ; in 1704, a sermon, Romans viii 3 1 ; in 
1706, the just man'i prerogative, a sermon, Prov. xii. 2 I . 

His posthumous works are, a thanksgiving sermon upon the 
return of a young gentleman from his travels, 1709 ; sacramen- 
tal meditations, a volume, 1711 ; in 1726, the body of divinity, 
being 2.50 lectures upon the assembly's shorter catechism, which 
is a very complete view of the doctrine pf the New England 
churches. 

3 p 



4^n W I L 

acting, without any peculiar restraint from the civil' 
power. He was then a young man, singular in his 
notions, and fond of manifesting his singularities. 
He arrived at Boston, Feb. 1631, and from this 
place went to Plymouth, where he resided two years, 
and spake freely his sentiments upon religion, with- 
out offending the brethren of that church. He was 
peculiarly gifted as a preacher, and was willing that 
they should speak at publick and private meetings j 
hence they were always attached to him, and were 
ready to help him in the time of his greatest neces- 
sities. He was not willing to settle with the church 
at Plymouth, but went to Salem, while Mr. Skel- 
ton was living, in whose pulpit he prophecied, ac- 
cording to the language of the times, when a man 
prf.ached who had not been inducted into the office 
of pastor or teacher. The church of Salem invited 
him to be their pastor when Mr. Skelton died» 
This gave offence to the government of the colony. 
It was the opinion of the ministers ot the bay, that 
if Mr. W. was allov\'ed to propagate his opinions, 
the churches might run into heresy and apostacy,, 
and the people defy the civil magistrate. The 
church of Salem was censured, as well as their 
teacher. When the court met, he was ordered to- 
appear before them. He was charged with writing 
two letters. One to the churches, complaining of 
i/ie magistrates for injustice and extreine oppression^ 
Sec. the other to his own church, persuading them 
to renounce communion ijoith all the churches in the 
hay^ because they were filled with antichristian pol- 
lution, &c. He justified these letters, maintained his 
opinions, and offered to defend them in a publick 
dispute. Mr. Hooker was chosen to confer with 
him, but could not convince him of his errors. He 
was ordered to depart from the jurisdiction in six 
weeks. ThechurchatSalem acknowledged their fault 
in joining their voice with Mr. W. in the letter he sent 
to the churches. The banishment of Mr. W. was in 
1635. He went to Secunke, now called Rehobotlu 



W I L 49 1 

He afterwards fiKed upon Mooshausick, which he 
named Providence, which is now one of the most 
flourishing places in New Knj^hmd. Strangers often 
seek ihe spot where Roger Williams fixed his humble 
dwelling, and drink at the spring, which ran before 
his door, where he slacked his thirst during his 
weariness and perils. A very odd w^ay of shewing 
respect to the memory of this uncommon man, who 
was poor, and altogether spiritual in his views, is 
now discovered by the people of that town. One 
of the Providence banks is named "Roger Wil- 
liams' bank." In 1637, Mr. Williams was em- 
ployed by the government of Massachusetts to be 
their agent in the business they transacted with the 
Indian tribes. His conduct was marked with fidel- 
ity, disinterestedness and wisdom. *^ Gov. Win- 
throp was a friend to him after this. Bis former as- 
sociates respected his talents and integrity, though 
they still blamed him for his bigotry, pride and sin- 
gularity. He had the entire confidence of the In- 
dian sachems. 

From this time we are to view Mr. W. as a dif- 
ferent character from what he was when teacher of 
a particular congregation in Salem; or would have 
been, had he continued in Massachusetts among the 
pastors of the churches. His sphere of usefulness 
was very extensive, and, where religious opinions 
had no influence, he conducted wisely, and beyond 
what could be expected frqm a man, who had 
shown such strange prejudices, and whose educa- 
tion gave him but litde knowledge of the world. 
We are to view him, as the father of one of the pro- 
vinces, and a writer in favour of civil and religious 
freedom, more bold, just, and liberal, than any 
other, who appeared in that generation. 

Many would smile at seeing the name of Roger 
Williams enrolled with the legislators of ancient 
times, or with the statesmen of modern Europe, or 

• For the details of Mr. Williams's life, s«e historical collec- 
<ions,>Tw>l. X. pages 17, 18, 19, 20, &c. 



492 W I L 

with such a man as Penn, the proprietor of Penn- 
sylvania, whose steps were more majestick upon 
the theatre of the great world. But this man was 
equal to conducting the affairs of this infant colony 
as well as if a complete system of legislation was 
formed ; and, as a mediator between the aboriginals 
and the English inhabitants, if he were the instru- 
ment of preserving peace, of teaching the Indians 
some of the arts of life, and of illuminating the 
minds of the heathen with the light of Christianity, 
he is certainly worthy of more credit, than some 
mighty hunters of the earth, or those sages, whose 
maxims have made men fierce and revengeful, and 
caused human blood to flow in streams. 

He was very instrumental in settling Rhode- 
Island, or procuring the grant of land, which Mr. 
Coddington and others had chosen for their planta- 
tion, when they left Boston. The historian of that 
colony has favoured us with a ms. of his, which he 
says is in perpetuajn rei memoriam. 

In 1643, Mr. Williams went to England as agent, 
and it was there, by the assistance of Vane, he ob- 
tained " a charter of chil 'mcorporation by the name 
of Providence plafitations in the Narraganset bay of 
JVew England.''^ It was dated 7th of March ; which 
form of government subsisted till 1651. Then up- 
on differences, they sent their former agent, and 
joined Mr. Clarke with him, who transacted the bu- 
siness to the advantage of the colony^ and the satis- 
faction of a large majority of the people. 

Roger Williams lived to a great age. He diedj 
1682, 48 years after his banishment. The various 
scenes of his life did not make him alter his senti- 
ments on religious freedom ; and his latitudinarian 
principles had no ill effect in plantations where there 
was no church rule or authority.* 

* The first of Mr. Williams's publications was a dialogue be- 
tween Trutk and Peace, a book of 247 pages, printed in London, 
1644. 

It required great boldness of thinking, and uncommon abilities^ 



W I L 495 

Williams John, pastor of the church at Deer- 
field, was the son of Mr. Samuel Williams of 
Roxbury. lie was born 1664, was graduated 
1683, and ordained in 1686. The town being 
among the frontier settlements, was continually- 
exposed to the incursions of the French and In- 
dians. In 1704 a party of savages destroyed the 
place, and carried Mr. Williams and his fitmily 
through a wilderness of 300 miles. They killed 



to write this work. Here are disclosed sentiments which have 
been admired in the writings of Milton and Furneaux. His ideas 
of toleration he carried further than Mr. Locke, but not beyond 
the generality of dissenters in England. The book was answered 
by Mr. Cotton, whose zeal and knowledge would give him a name 
among christian worthies in any age of the church, and wlio was 
the most distinguished of the clergy in Massachusetts. But so 
far from supposing himself confuted, Mr. Williams replied witlj 
great spirit and argument, which reply has been since published, 
together with Mr. Cotton's attack upon him, which he called the 
Bloody Ttnent, washed in (he blood of the Lamb, in allusion to the 
first writing of Mr. Williams, which he styled The Bloody Tenent, 
or Dialogue between 7 ruth and Peace, meaning' (hat the idea of the 
interference of the magistracy, in matters of religion, is a bloody te- 
ncJit. 

The title of another book is, George Fox digged out of his bur- 
rowi, isfc. by Roger Williams. Tlie answer, a New Kngland 
'fire-brand quenched, being an answer to a lying, slanderous hot k, 
Sec. by one Roger Williams, confuting his blasphemous asser- 
tions, by George Fox and John Burnyeat. These controversinl 
pieces were printed about the years 1676 — 1678, and the con- 
tents of a large volume are similar to tlie title pages. 

Many tracts are ascribed to Mr. Williams as a writer. He 
wrote letters to individuals of his acquaintance, and to gentlemen 
in office, which are among ihe most valuable antiquarian stores ; 
some of them very curious and rare. 

It is a desirable object to collect the mss of Mr. Williams. He 
mentions receiving scores of letters iVom his excellent friend gov. 
Winthrop. Doubtless there are many letters of his writing, a^s 
well as his correspondents, which would be accounted precious 
by those whodcsiic to krinw the history of their ow.i country. 

A most valuable hook was published by the subject of this me- 
moir, upon the language of sauvage America. It is called a Key 
to the lang'.iage of the Indians of .\ew England. It was prmted 
in 1643, in a small duodecimo volume. The original ii in the li- 
brary of the historical society ; and most of the contents have 
been published in their collections. 



494, W I L 

his wife, two children, and two servants. He was 
sent first to Montreal, then to Quebec, and in 
1706, returned home, with other captives, to the 
fiumber of 57. Mr. Williams was again settled at 
Deerfield, where he lived till the year 1729. He 
died suddenly of the apoplexy, in the month of 
June, aged 65. He was a pious and worthy 
man. His natural vivacity of temper, his vigourous 
mind, and firm constitution, fitted him for his situa- 
tion, where he had to endure trials of the heart, as 
well as those trials which are common to men, and 
ministers. One of his children was brought up 
^mong the Indians, and never could be persuaded 
to leave her wandering life. She married and pass- 
ed her days in Canada. He left 3 sons who were 
favoured with a college education, and settled in the 
ministry.* His wife, who was killed by the Indians, 
was the daughter of E. Mather, the first minister of 
Northampton, and grand- daiighter of the famous 
John Warham, who came to Dorchester in 1630. 

Williams Nathaniel, preceptor of the south 
grammar school, Boston, was the son of very re- 
spectable parents, who gave him a college educa- 
tion with a view of his becoming a minister of the 
gospel ; and to this he was early inclined. He was 
graduated at Harvard College, 1693 ; and, in July, 
1698, was ordained an evangelist for one of the 
West India Islands, The climate was unfriendly to 
his constitution, and he soon returned to his native 
town. Being an excellent classical scholar, he was 
chosen successor to the celebrated master Cheev- 
er in the publick and free grammar school, " the 
principal school," says Mr. Prince, " of the British 
colonies, if not of all America." He continued from 
the year 1703 to 1734 a very useful instructor, when 

* His publications v/ere, the redeemed captive returning to 
Zion, as a history of his captivity, 1706 •, also a sermon preach- 
ed the same year at the Boston lecture, Psalm cvii. 13, 14. 15 ; 
of these, the fourth edition vvas printed, 1793; the convention^ 
sermon, 1728, 



W I L 495 

his age and infirmities obliged him to resign his of> 
fice. His assistant, Mr. Lovell, was then placed in 
the chair. When he was in the West Indies he 
applied his mind to the study of physick, and enter- 
ed into the profession after he came to Bostoiv 
Those who employed him, persuaded him not to 
leave his line of business, when he took the gram- 
mar school. He visited many families, and when 
he gave up the school, passed the latter years of his 
life in the duties of his profession. He was called 
" the beloved physician," and was so agreeable in 
his manners, that, when he entered into the chambers 
of the sick, " his voice and countenance did good, 
like a medicine." It revived the spirits, and light- 
ened the maladies. Amidst the multiplicity of his 
business, as a publick instructor, and a physician in 
extensive practice, he never left the ininisterialiuork. 
He preached occasionally, and his prayers and ser. 
mons were highly acceptable to the pious iind judi- 
cious. 

He was very much attached to the religious prin- 
ciples and manners of New England. *' The gra- 
ces of the gospel seemed to shine in his countenance 
and conversation, and he was one of the most use^ 
ful men in the town and land." He died, Jan.,10» 
1737, 8, aged 63. There is no publication with his 
name, except a pamphlet upon " inoculation for the 
small pox." This was printed when the publick 
mind was so much agitated about introducing the 
practice. One of the satirical pamphlets of the 
times introduced him with Boylston and Douglass 
in a conversation which brought forward all the ar- 
guments for and against it. The book is entitled, 
''' Mundungus, Sawney, Academicus, a debate, 
1721." Prince'^s sermon. 

Williams Elisha, rector of Yale College, was 
the son of the rev. William Williams of Hatfield. 
Thefather,whowasoneofthemosteminent clergymen 
in the county of Hampshire, was graduated in 1683, 
and died in 1753. He preached the election ser- 



496 W I L 

mon in 1719. He also printed a volume of ser- 
mons in 12mo. on Heb. ii. 3. The preface was 
written by Dr. Colman, who speaks highly of the 
writer. Rector Williams was graduated at Har- 
vard College in 1711. He was ordained over a 
church in VVeathersfield, Connecticut, and intro- 
duced to the chair of Yale College, Sept. 1716. He 
resigned his office in 1739, on account of his ill 
state of health. He reformed the college very much, 
and advanced useful and polite literature. 

In 1745, he went as chaplain to the Connecticut 
forces upon the expedition to Cape Breton. The 
next year he had a colonel's commission given to 
him, when an expedition to Canada was formed. 
He made a conspicuous figure after he went into the 
civil line. Being speaker of the house of represen- 
tatives, he displayed so great talents that he was sent 
to Great Britain, as agent for the colony. While he 
was in England, he married a most amiable lady 
with whom he lived happily till his death, in 1755. 
He died at Weathersfield, July 24, etat 61.* 

Wilson John, first pastor of the church in Bos- 
ton, was the son of Dr. William Wilson, prebend 
of Rochester. His mother was niece of Dr. Ed- 
mund Grindal, the renowned archbishop of Canter- 
bury. He was born at Windsor, had a pious edu- 
cation, and made considerable progress in classical 
learning at school and at college. He was 4 years 
at Eaton, and during this time was directed to speak 
a latin oration, when the duke de Biron, minister 
from Henry IV. visited the schools ; for which the 
duke bestowed 3 angels upon him. He was ad- 
mitted into King's College, Cambridge, 1602. His 
prejudices were strong against the Puritans till he 

* In 1744, Mr. Williams wrote a pamphlet in 66 pages, 4to. 
entitled, " the essential rights and liberties of protestants ; "or, a 
letter tVom a gentleman in Massachusetts to his friend in Con- 
necticut, wherein " some thoughts on the.origin, end, and extent 
of the civil power, with brief considerations on several late laws 
in Connecticut, are humbly offered by a lover of truth and liber- 



4r 



W I L 497 

fead the work of Mr. Richard Rogers, called the 4 
seven treatises. He afterwards, by the advice of * -1^ 
Dr. Ames, joined a pious company at the university, 
who held conferences upon religious subjects. He 
studied diligently the controversy between the epis- 
copal church and the puritans, and became convinced, 
that he ought not to conform to the rites and cere- 
monies of the church of Kngland. For this he was 
expelled the university. When his father could not 
persuade him to alter his views of religion, he ad- 
vised him to enter the inns of the court. By the in- 
fluence of the earl of Northampton, chancellor of 
the university, he afterwards received his degree at 
Cambridge. When he began to preach, he had fre- ^^ 
quent invitations to take the charge of a church ; but 
as frequently was complained of to the spiritual 
courts, and silenced. The earl of Warwick was his 
friend, and by his influence he obtained leave to ex- 
ercise his ministry. In the year 1629, when the 
plantation of a new colony was begun, Mr. W. was ^ 
invited to join them, and embarked in the fleet ^ H 
which came here in 1630. When he arrived at Sa- 
lem he was about 42 years old ; but had a large 
share of health and vigour. He was able to assist 
his brethren under the difficulties of a new planta- 
tion, *' the main design of which was, to settle the 
ordinances of the gospel, and worship Christ accord- 
ing to his own institutions." The next month af- 
ter their arrival, they organized their church in 
Charlestown. He was installed teacher of this 
church, August 27, 1630. Afterwards he was 
chosen pastor of the church in Boston, and separat- 
ed to the charge, Nov. 22, 1632. They were 
careful to mention that, although they used imposi- 
tion of hands, it was only a sign of election, and not 
that he renounced the ordination he received in En- 
gland. In the dispute, which divided the Boston 
church, Mr. Wilson and gov.Winthrop were on one 
^ide. Mobt of the church, with their teacher, Mr. 
Cotton, were of a difterent opinion, and were like- 

3 (^ 



J> 



% 



49a W I L 

wise strengthened by the authority, talents and fa- 
natical zeal of sir Henry Vane. Mr. Wilson threw 
all his influence in favour of s^ov. Winthrop at 
the next election. He even stood upon a tree, and 
spoke to the people. Upon this occasion he disco- 
vered much spirit, though his general character was 
that of a mild and moderate man. He was very af> 
fable in speech, and condescending in his deportment. 
He yielded to the superiour and more overbearing 
influence of the great Cotton in every thing, except 
in this Antinomian controversy, and in giving the 
government to Winthrop. He lived to be an old 
man, and followed to the grave both Cotton and 
Norton. 

When Mr. Norton returned from England, good 
Mr. Wilson censured him for his conduct. He and 
elder Penn, in the name of themselves and others, 
acquainted him, that an assistant must be chosen, 
Mr. Allen had preached, and the people were much 
captivated with him. Mr. Norton, however, had 
his friends, and they increased, though the general- 
ity of his flock had their prejudices against him. 

Mr. Wilson preached his last sermon at Roxbu* 
ry lecture for his son in law, Mr. Danforth; and 
died August 7, 1667, in the 79th year of his age. 
His remains were interred with uncommon respect, 
Mr. Mather of Dorchester preached his funeral ser- 
mon, Zech. i...5. Our fathers^ 'ujhere are they ?^ 

• Dr. Cotton Mather printed the life of Mr. Wilson, from 
which a nmnber ot facts were taken. Some likewise from Prince's 
annals, who collected further accounts of him. Mr. Wilson pub- 
lished many poems, anaj^rams, See. in Latin and English. None 
pf his theological tracts have come down to us. A sermon of his 
ivas printed, taken in short hand, by one of his hearers. When 
he was young, his preaching was very methodical. Several judi- 
cious men in England followed him, on account of his excellent 
discourses; and when he first came to New England, Mr. Shep- 
ard said, " Methinks I hear an apostle when I licar this man." 
In his old age, his sermons were made up of exhortations, and 
might be compared " to a good kind of talking." This may be 
a reason why he published no more, while his colleagues sent so 
many works to the press. 



i 



WIN 499 

An observation of Dr. Ames, the celebrated pre 
fessor, deserves to be recorded to the honour of 
Mr. Wilson, *' that if he might have his option of 
the best condition this side heaven, it would be the 
teacher of a congregational church of which Mr, 
Wilson was pastor." 

That witty writer, Mr. Ward, author of the sim- 
ple cob'.er of Agawam, remarking the hospitality of 
Mr. Wilson, and knowing that he was fond of ana- 
grams, said, that the anagram of John Wilson was, 
*' i pray come in, you arc heartily welcome." This 
anecdote is better attested, than one lately given to 
the publick about this same Mr. Ward, concerning 
hi'i interview with Dr. Mather, who refused him 
even entrance to his house. Mr Peters, who re- 
lates this, did not recollect that Dr. Mather was not 
one of the same generation. 

WiNSLow Edward, governour of Plymouth 
colony, was born in the year 1694. He was an /^^' 
English gentleman of Worcestershire, who travel- 
led over Europe, and joined Mr. Robinson's church 
at Leyden. He came over to New England with 
the first planters, and his name appears conspicuous 
among those who subscribed " the covenant of in- 
corporation," at Cape Cod. His address and activ- 
ity made him very useful to the company, and his 
eminent services are mentioned by every writer who 
gives an account of the landmg of our fathers, or 
the circumstances of their settlement. Having lost 
his wife among those who died the first winter, he 
married the widow of William White, May 12, 
1621. This is the first marriage which ever took 
place in New England. The lady was also the mo- 
ther of the first child born in this newly discovered 
region. His name was Peregrine, who lived to the 
age of 83 years, 8 months, and died, July 20, 1704. 

Mr. Winslow several times visited Massasoit, 
the sachem of the Indians who dwelt nearest the 
English settlement, of which he gives an account in 
his own journal, which happily has been preserved- 



500 WIN 

It makes part of the invaluable collections of Pur 
chase, and is printed by Dr. Belknap, in the appen- 
dix to the American biography. Mr. Winslovv al- 
so made another excursion to the bay of Penobscot, 
in 1622, to procure bread from the vessels^ fishing 
upon the eastern coasts. He obtained a present 
supply, and this led to a beneficial traftick with the 
natives. The next year he went to England, and, 
after an absence of six months, arrived at Plymouth 
with provisions, cloathinjij, and neat cattle. He went 
back to Great Britain, and again returned to the 
plantation in 1625. He was chosen one of the as- 
sistants. In this office he continued till 1633, and 
was then elected governour. Mr. Bradford impor- 
tuned him to take the office. These virtuous men 
entered into competition, not like the politicians 
of this world, but like the rulers of a christian 
commonwealth, " in honour preferring one ano- 
ther." In 1635, Mr. Winslovv was employed as 
agent for the colonies of Plymouth and Massachu- 
setts at the British court. He transacted the busi- 
ness much to their satisfaction, but subjected him- 
self to peculiar trials and difficulties. By order of 
archbishop Laud, that archfiend to the puritans, he was 
committed to prison. A complaint was made against 
him by Thomas Morton of '^' Merry mount," who 
gave information, that Mr. Winslow preached to the 
people at Plymouth, and married without license. 
Mr. W. acknowledged, " that sometimes, when the 
church was destitute of a minister, he exercised his 
gift for the edification of the brethren." He also 
acknowledged the fact of his marrying people ; but 
he considered marriage " as a civil contract, and 
had been himself married by a Dutch magistrate in 
Holland." Hg was confined several months in the 
Fleet prison. When he returned to Plymouth, 
1636, he was elected governour; but the year suc- 
ceeding took his place among the magistrates. In 
1643, he was appointed a commissioner of the 
united colonies. In 1646, he was persuaded tog© 



WIN 501 

once more to England, to answer to the complaints 
of Gorton and others against the colony. While he jfll 
was in England, his pious and benevolent mind was '^*^^ 
bent to an object which has since been pursued by 
christians of various denominations, " the propaga- 
tion of the gospel among the Indians." 'I'his cor- m 
poration, under the name of " the London society," "^T 
was continued till the American revolution. 

In 1655, Mr. Winslow was appointed one of the 
three commissioners to superintend the operations 
of the fleet sent to the West Indies. if\dmiral Penn 
and gen. Venables made an attack on St. Domingo, 
but were defeated. They took Jamaica; but in their 
passage from one island to the other, Mr. Winslow 
fell a sacrifice to the diseases of the climate. His 
body was committed to the deep, with the honours 
of war, 42 guns being fired, May 8, 1655. Morton. 
Fr'ince. Belknap. 

Winslow Josiah, son of that illustrious man, 
Edward Winslow, had all his father's great and Mf 1' 
good qualities. He was the first governour who ^^ 
was born in New England. Having been a magis- W | 
trate several years, he succeeded Mr. Prince in the 
government, 1673, and w^as annually chosen, till 
168'). He had what may be called a liberal educa- 
tion for this country, and discovered much good '^i ^^ 
sense in his management of publick affairs. As a ^ 
military officer he possessed skill, address and bra- 
very. In 1656, when Alexander, the eldest son 
of Massasoit, was suspected of plotting against the 
English with the Narragansetts, Mr. Winslow, 
with several armed men, took him by surprise, , 

which put an end to his machination ; but his ^» "^ 
breast swelled with rage, and his passion brought ^ 
on a fever, which was fatal. In 16V 5, Philip, 
the youngest son, stirred up all the natives against 
the 'English. Mr. Winslow wrote to the gover- 
nour of Massachusetts, '' that he could not learn that 
Philip pretended any wrong done to him by the 
English, but suspected that he should be made to 



502 WIN 

answer for the murder of John Saosaman," a chris- 
tian Indian, whom the Indians of Mount Hope hated 
on this very account. Sensible of the prowess of 
gov. Winslovv, the enemy tried every way to cut 
him oif; but he was not to be moved with their 
threats. In the month of December he command- 
ed the forces that attacked the Indians in th^tir strong 
holds, and slew 1100 of them. This gave him a 
high reputation among his countrymen, and made 
^"^the savages dread him. Gov. \Vinslow died at 
Marshfieid, Dec. 18, 1680, in the 52d year of his 
age. 

Win SLOW Isaac, son of gov.Winslow, was pre- 
sident of the provincial council, and the chief miU 
itary officer in the colony. He died, 1738. 

WiNSLow JoHNj major general, was also a dis- 
tinguished character in the colony ; nor vvus \\\s ce- 
lebrity confined to New England. He commanded 
a company in the regiment, that was sent to Cuba 
in 1740. He had a commission in the line ot the 
British troops, and rose to the rank of major gt ne- 
tal. He was the chief in command in several ex- 
peditions to Kennebeck. He was brave as a sol- 
dier, and an excellent military officer. His son, 
Dr. Isaac Winslow,is now living in Marshfieid up- 
on the family estate. The general died, 1774> 
aged 71. Morion. Hutchinson. Belknap. 

WiNTHROP JoHNi govcHiour ot" Mdssiichusetts, 
■was the son of Adam Winthrop, esq. of Groton, in 
Suffialk. He was born June 12, i5B7. When he 
was 18 years old he had such a kno ledge of juris- 
prudence, as to be appointed a justice of the peace. 
'J he family estate was large ; but he converted it 
into different property, that he might come over to 
America. So pious a man would prefer an un- 
cultivated country w here he could enjoy his relig- 
ion to ease and affluence amidst those who were 
of a persecuting spirit. In 1630 he brought 
over the charter, and arrived at Salem, June 
12. He was chosen governour several years sue- 



9*^ 

w I N 6oa 

cessively ; but for the sake of a rotine among the 
magistrates, Mr. Dudley was put into his place, and 
Ludlow, a west countryman of fine abilities and 
great intrigue, was chosen deputy. The next year 
Mr. Ludlow tried for the chief place, but was disap- 
pointed of both. He therefore went to Connecticut, 
as related in the sketch of his life. In 1656, Mr. 
W. being deputy governour, had need of all his 
wisdom and integrity to prevent the consequence^ 
of sir H. Vane's rash proceedings, and to calm the 
religious commotions, which made confusion in the 
metropolis. He met with other troubles, which af- 
fected his ingenuous mind, because his intentions 
were pure, and his aim was to serve the people. To 
be injured by those we love, and exert ourselves to 
Serve, is a severe trial of the heart ; but he bore even 
these trials with meekness, and benevolent wishes 
to the country. He was conscious of rectitude ; and 
whenever the people had time for consideration, 
they found him to be a most faithful magistrate, and 
wise and prudent man, who always sought their in- 
terest to the sacrifice of his own. When he left 
tngland he possessed a very catholic spirit. He was 
more of a puritan in New England from his acquain- 
tance with Dudley, Endicot and others, who thought 
toleration a crime, and that no kind of religious 
sentiments should be suffered to prevail, except what 
they had imbibed : be fore his death, he expressed 
a wish that more moderation had been used towards 
persons accounted hereticks. He suffered great 
losses of a pecuniary nature by the bad management 
of his steward ; such depredations were made on his 
property as excited the compassion of the people, 
who exerted themselves to assist him by public^ 
and private contributions. This great and good man 
also met with domestick affliction in a more tender 
part, in the breaches that were m^ide upon his fam- 
ily. Ill health of body affected his mind, and he died, 
26th of March, 1049, in the 63d year of his age. 
He left a journal of events from the settlement of 



50i 



WIN ^^t 






the colony to his death. An island in the harbour 
of Boston bears his name, and is still in the posses- 
sion of one of his descendants. His picture is pre- 
served in the council chamber. Several of his pos- 
terity have exhibited the image of their illustrious 
'Tancestor, and his family have been more eminent for 
if their talents, learning and honours than any other j/k 

k .^ in New Kngland* -'Wk 

a^w WiNTHROp John, governour of Connecticut, 

%?eldest son of the first governour of Massachusetts, 
was born in England, 1605, was educated at the 
university of Cambridge, and travelled over the 
greatest part of Europe. In 1633, he came over to 
this country, and was chosen a magistrate of the col- 

"" m *^"y °^ Massachusetts. The spot which he preferred 

^^ gior a dwelling, was Agawam, where he went with 12 

men, to begin a plantation. They called it Ipswich. 

w» There his first son was born. He went back to 

England ; but in the same year came over to Ameri- 
ca with a commission from lord Say and Seal, 
lord Brook and others, to be governour of their plan- ^ , 
tation, at Connedicut. A fort was built at the 
mouth of the river, and the spot called Saybrook, 
in compliment to the noble lords who owned the *' 
land. In 1651 he was chosen a magistrate of this jj 

i Ik ' people, and then deputy governour, and after- 
Ww wards governour. In 1662 he was agent at the court 

^ ^. of Charles II. and obtained a charter for the colony 
TfT of Connecticut. An account of this agency is cel- 
ebrated in poetick strains, by one of his successors, 
Roger Wolcott, esq.f He was annually chosen 
chief magistrate to the time of his death. ^^ M ^^ 
the spring of 1676, upon a visit to Boston, he was^ ^ 
taken sick, and expired April 5th, and was buried 
in the same tomb with his father, He was one of 
the greatest philosophers of the age ; and his name 
is among the founders of the royal society of Lon- 

• A very interesting and particular part of Belknap's American 
Biography, is the life of i^ov. VVinthrop. 

t Historical collections, vol. iv. 






WIN 505 

don. The great Mr. Boyle, bishop Wilkins, with 
several other learned men, had proposed to leave 
England, and establish a society for promoting natu- 
I'al knoiv/cdge in the new colony of which Mr. VVin- 
throp, their intimate friend and associate, was ap- 
pointed governour. Such men were too valuable to 
lose from Great Britain, and Charles II. having taken 
them under his protection, the society was there es- 
tablished, and obtained the title of the royai society of 
JLondon. It was soon considered as the most learned 
society in Kurope. Mr. Winthrop sent over many 
specimens of the productions of this country, with 
his remarks upon them, " and, by an order of the 
royal society, he was in a particular manner invited 
to take upon himself the charge of being ti»e chief 
correspondent in the West, as sir Philiberio Vernatti 
was in the East Indies.*' '^ His name," says the same 
writer, who was secretary to this society in 174 1, "had 
he put it to his writings, would have been as uni- 
versally known, as the Boyles', the Wilkins', and 
Oldenburghs', and been handed down to us with 
similar applause." Dedication of the 40/A volume 
of philosophical transactions, ^c, 

Winthrop Fitz John, son of John Winthrop, 
esq. first governour of Connecticut, was born at 
Ipswich, 1638. He was a magistrate of the colony, 
and major general. In 1693 he was appointed agent 
of the colony to present a petition to king William 
to secure their charter rights; and when he returned, 
at the election, May, 1698, he was chosen gover- 
nour. He resembled his father in fine accomplish, 
ments, had an excellent moral character, was famous 
for his philosophical knowledge, and was elected a fel- 
low of the royal society : he was aEo famous for his 
skill in politicks. This he manifested when he was at 
the court of Great Britain : his conduct there was so 
pleasing to the people of Connecticut, that they not 
only voted him thanks for his successful agency, 
but, as a further testimony of their esteem, present- 
,€(J himL with 500 pounds for the services rendered, 
3 R 



506 WIN 



r-J 



The colony sustained a great loss by his death. He 
died at Boston, of thestoiie, Nov. 27, 1707. Har- 
ris'' s ?nss. TrumbuWs history of Connecticut. 

WiNTHROP John, F. R. S. grandson of the first 
governour of Connecticut, was graduated at Harvard 
College, 1700. He was a magistrate in the colony 
of Connecticut ; but left this country, went to. 
England, and there passed the rest of his days. He 
died in the year 1747. To this gentleman the " 40th 
volume of the transactions of the royal society" 
was dedicated by Dr. Cromwell Mortimer their se- 
cretary. It seems he left America on account of 
some contention between his family and the govern- 
ment of Connecticut.* He was elected a fellow of 
the royal society, and was distinguished as one of the 
most conspicuous members of that learned body. 
He was also esteemed and courted by learned and 
good men for his *' extraordinary skill in the deep 
mysteries of the hermetic science." 

WiNTHROP John, L L. D. F. R. S. was the son 
of the honourable Adam Winthrop, esq. one of his 
majesty's council in Massachusetts. The grand- 
father and great grandfather were also honourable 
men, each named Adam, and the eldest a son of the 
first governour. The subject of the present article 
was graduated at Harvard College, 1732. He was 
then an amiable youth, and one of the first scho- 

• « When ihe injustice and ingratitude of a reigning party in 
power among that very people, whereof the Winihrops have been 
always in the most strict sense the lathers, the patrts patriae, had 
most cruelly driven you from your family and native soil, to seek 
justice and security in your natural rights from the hands of our 
most gracious sovereign ; anudst the vexations of the greatest 
abuses, and the hurries of the most sudden departure, you were 
not unmindful of the royal socitty ; for soon after your being 
chosen a fellow, you increased the riches of their repository with 
more than 600 curious specimens, chiefly in the mineral king- 
dom, accompanied with an accurate account of each particular ; 
thereby shewing your great skill in na^'iral philosophy) and jt the 
same time intimating to England the vast riches which lie hiddea 
in the lap of her principal daughter. Since Mr. Cohvell, the 
founder of th - museum of the royal society, you have been the 
benefactor who has given the most numerous collection," &c. 



W I N 507 

4ars hi his class. In 1738 he succeeded Mr. Green- 
wood, as Hollis professor of mathematicks and nat- 
ural philosophy, and was more eminent for his schol- 
arship, than any other man in New England. In 
mathematical science he was considered as the first 
in America during the 40 years he continued pro- 
fessor at Cambridge. In the year 1740, he made 
observations upon the transit of Mercury, which 
were printed in the transactions of the royal society; 
in 1755 he printed a lecture upon earthquakes, 
and 1756 a letter to the rev. Mr. Prince, who made 
observations upon the professor's opinion ; two lec- 
tures upon comets in 1759. In the year 1761 ther^ 
was a transit of Venus over the sun's disk, and, as 
Newfoundland was the most western part of the earth 
where the end of the transit could be observed, it 
was an object with the literati, to have observations 
made in that place. Mr. W. offered his services 
to go there, and the general court made provision 
for his voyage. He took with him two pupils, who 
had made progress in mathematical studies,* and 
sailed from Boston, May 9th. The sixth of June 
was a fine day for observing the transit of the 
planet, and he gained high reputation when these 
observations were published. In 1769 he had anoth- 
er opportunity of observing the transit of Venus at 
Cambridge. As it was the last opportunity that 
generation could be favoured with, he was desirous 
to arrest the attention of the people. He read two 
lectures upon the subject in the college chapel, 
which the students requested him to publish. The 
professor put this motto upon the title page, agite 
mortales ! et oculos in spectaculum vertite, quod 
hucusce spectaverunt pcrpaucissimi ; spectaturi 
iterum sunt nuUi. 

He received literary honours from other countries 
beside his own. The royal society of London elect- 

* Samuel Williams, who succeeded him in the professorship, 
end Isaac Rand, who was lately president of the medical society 
of Massachusetts, 



^08 W 1 N 

ed him a member ; and the university of Edinburgh 
gave him a diploma of L L. D. In 1767, he urote 
Cogitata de cometis, which he dedicated to the royal 
society, as a testimony of respect after lie was ad- 
mitted into their body. This was reprinted in Lon- 
don the next year. Professor W. was an excellent 
classical scholar, and also a biblical critick. Some 
of his criticisms are published in Dr. Chauncy's 
book, entitled, '* salvation for all men." The Dr. 
acknowledges the assistance he received from the 
learned professor, and always spake of him, as one 
of the greatest theologians he ever met with. 

The active services of Dr. Winthrop were not 
confined to the duties of his professorship at Cam- 
bridge. He was a brilliant star in our political 
hemisphere. The family of Winthrops had always 
been distinguished for their love of freedom, and the 
charter rights of the colonies. When Great Britain 
made encroachments upon these, by acts of parlia- 
ment after the peace of Paris, in 1763, he stepped 
forth among those, who boldly opposed the mea- 
sures of the crown. He had much influence from 
his knowledge, and the weight of his character. 
He was chosen one of his majesty's council when 
Hutchinson was in the chair of government, who 
did not negative him ; but in the year 1774, a royal 
mandate was issued to negative three gentlemen, 
who had been most active in opposing the measures 
of the administration. These were Mr, Bovvdoin, 
Mr. Dexter, and Mr. Winthrop. When the people 
took the government into their own hands, he was 
again chosen one of the council, and continued in 
his publick character till his death. 

The best partof Dr. Winthrop'seharacterwas, that 
he was a christian philosopher. Hebelievedthe trnths 
of Christianity from study and conviction, and was 
an ornament to his profession. To his numerous 
acquaintance, he was a " friend, philosopher and 
guide.'' He had the consolations of our divine re- 
ligion, during his latter years, when his bodily frame 



VV O L 905 

was subject to pain and infirmities. His mind con- 
tinued strong, his iailh was steadfast, and his views 
spiritual and pure. He died, May 3, 1779, aged 65. 

WoLcoTT HoGEK, govcmour of Connecticut, 
was born in Windsor, 1679. He made his first ap- 
pearance in publick life, as an officer in the army 
that went to Canada in 1711. He was afterwards 
colonel of the militia, and was commander of the 
Connecticut forces when Cape Breton was taken by 
the Americans in 1745. He was employed in ma- 
ny civil offices, which he filled with reputation, and 
discharged with fidelity. He was a member of the 
general assembly, assistant, deputy govcrnour, 
chief judge of the superior court, and, in the year 
1 75 1, succeeded M, . Law in the chair of government. 
In 1754, he resigned his publick honours, and pass- 
ed the rest of his days in the shades of retirement. 
The evening of his days was giidcd by the reflec- 
tion of a well spent life. He died May 17, 1767, 

Gov. Wolcott had not the advantage even of a 
common education ; but the resources of his 
mind were great. His private affairs he managed 
with discretion. He was fond of books, conversed 
upon literary subjects with ease, and was highly re- 
spected by gentlemen of the first abilities in the col- 
ony. He wrote and published several works in 
poetry and prose. His account, in poetry, of the 
agency of gov. Wintiirop, in 1662, was lately re- 
printed in the 4th volume of the collections of the 
Massachusetts historical society ; it makes one of 
his poetical meditations, published in 1725i in a 
small volume. These resemble the jingle of the 
early productions of New England rather than 
the vei bilication of later days. In 1760 he 
engaged in a controversy, which then agitated the 
churches of Connecticut. In the year preceding, 
Mr. Hobart of Fairfield wrote a book, entitled, 
*' The principles of the congregational churches 
considered, and applied to the ordination at Wal- 
lingford." The settlement of Mr. Dana, who now 



510 WOL 

ranks among the distina;inshed writers and divines 
of New England, at Wailingford, gave great offence 
to the neighbouring clergy. The ordination was 
contrary to the rules of the Saybrook plaliorm, and 
Mr. Hobart highly censured the proceedings. Mr. 
Hart wrote remarks upon Mr. Hobart's book, and 
Mr. Wolcott also addressed a letter to him, wherein 
he compares the Cambridge and Saybrook platform; 
and proves the latter to be inconsistent with the gen- 
eral principles of toleration, and religious freedom. 
Mr. Hobait replied to Mr. Hart in 1761. We have 
no answer to the letter of Mr. Wolcott, which is 
dated April 25, 1760. 

Wolcott Oliver, L L. D. governour of Con- 
necticut, was the son of Roger Wolcott, and pos*. 
sessed his father's talents and virtues, with a mind 
improved by a liberal education. He was educated 
at Yale College, and received his degree in 1747. 
He then applied his mind to the study of physick, 
and had an extensive practice in the town ot Litch- 
field. He had a taste for publick life, and was well 
versed in the laws and politicks of New Kngland. 
For a number of years he was high sheriff of the 
county of Litchfield. He was among the high whigs 
■who resisted the oppressive acts of the mother coun- 
try. In 1776, we find his name among those who 
signed the declaration of independence. From that 
time he was annually chosen a member of congress 
till the year 1785. when he was appointed deputy 
governour, and continued in this office till gov. 
Huntington died in 1796. He was then advanced to 
the chair; but died the next year in December, 1797. 

His character was very respectable in private life, 
and in every publick station. He was a gentleman 
and scholar, very liberal in his sentiments, and also 
a friend to the constitutitm of the New Kngland 
churches. By some he might be considered as too 
liberal, as his ideas of moral agency were different 
from many of the clergy. He frequently expressed 
his opinion that necessarian principles ought not to 



YAL 511 

be propaf^ated with theolo.^ical opinions ; that it was 
an injury to the cause of morality, as people did 
not distinguish between the doctrine of necessity, 
and common notions of fate. In this he differed 
from some excellent characters, and agreed with 
others, equally wise and good. He had a humble 
view of himself, though others thought highly of his 
abilities. Having lived a religious life, he enjoyed 
the hope of a christian, looking for a reward, as well 
as rest from his labours. 

Woo DB RIDGE Benjamin, first graduate of Har- 
vard College, in 1642, was an eminent scholar, and 
an excellent preacher. He left America, and settled 
at Newbury, Berks, as successor to the great Dr. 
Twiss. In 1662 he was ejected from the parish; 
but afterwards preached by a particular indulgence 
of the king, who had a very favourable opinion of 
him. He died, 1684. 

Yale Klihu, a friend to learning and religion,' 
was born at New Haven, 1648 ; and when he was 
very young, was carried to England. He was 
brought up to merchandize, and, by his industry 
and attention to business, grew rich, and also gained 
publick esteem. At the age of 40 he sailed to the 
East Indies. He was there appointed commander 
of fort St. George. When he returned to London 
he was chosen president of the East India company. 
He sought opportunities of doing good, and either 
founded, or encouraged, many literary, pious and 
useful institutions. In the year 1717, Dr. Cotton 
Mather wrote to Mr. Yale, and advised him to pre- 
sent a liberal donation to the college at New Haven. 
They will name the college after you, said he, and 
that will be better than to have sons and daugh- 
ters. In a letter to gov. Saltonstall, the Doctor 
tells him, that the college had better be named Yale, 
and says something handsome will be given. Hence 
the name of Yale College was given to one of the 
most respectable seminaries of New England. 



ERRATA ET ADDENDA. 

Page 3, Hue 8, from bottom, for 1701, read 1721; p. 4,!. 11, fr. top. 
dele VI i p. 5, 1- 2, fr. top, for 1778, read 1773 ; p. 20. !. 3 fr. bot. for 
1737, read 1697 ; p. 21. I. 7, fr. top, for proposition, read profositions ; p, 
24, I 2. fr. bottom, for year, read years ; p. 24, 1, 8, fr. bot. for 1771, read 
1778 ; p. 31, 1. 14 fr. top, for or, read for ,- p. 47, 1. 8, fr top for composi- 
tion, x^?l6 compositions ; p. 4S, 1. 15. fr. top, for preventative, read freTenti-ve ; 

- p. 51. 1. 6. fr. bot for >Tr. I',, read Mr. H, p. 73, I. 4. fr. bot. for 1740, read 
1748; p 75, 1 . 16. fr. bot, for less read wwre ,- 76, 1. 16, fr top. read o'.^ o///f'^ 

Jifteen ; p. 76. 1 22, fr. top, dele of ,■ p 78, 1 24, fr. top, for 1720, read 1721 ; 
p. 78, 1. 3, fr. bot. read Colman ,- p. 84. I. 4, fr. bot. dHe i(n'e ,- p. 8 6. 1. 6, 
fr. top, C for c : p 91, 1. 14. fr. bot add, except a preface to Boeder Wolcott's 
meditations, and an ordinahon sermon, preaclied at Colchester, 1729 ; p. 97,1, 
18. fr. bot. for 1630 read 1621 ; p. 99, 1 14 fr bot. for prasidtm, read pra- 
sidem ; p 100, 1? 6, fr top, for imperato, read imperatore s p. 101, 1. 9. fr, top, 
for Intergeriimi. read Integerriini ; p 101,1. 12, fr top, read lihcrali ; p, 101, 
1. 16. fr top, dele LC ; p. 106, 1. 6. fr top. after is, read in ; p. 107, 1. 12, 
fr bot. for scriptures, read scripture ,- p. 110. 1 19, fr bot.. de e to ; p. 113, 1. 
7, fr. top for built, kaA eathereJ ^ p 119, 1 12, fr. bot. read everlasting ; p, 
121, 1. 4. fr. bot. for to, read of ; p 122, I. 20, fr. top, read continued till he 
nvent to England ,- p 141, 1 3 fr. bot. reaH discharged -with fidelity ; p. 143, I. 
5, fr. bot. for well wishes, read tvelt -wishers / p. 146, 1 19 fr. top, for 1771, 
read 1671 ; p. 146, 1. 25 fr top, for 1134. read 1634 ; p 154, 1 6 fr. bo^. 
lead to make .- p. 158, 1. 13, fr. bot for White, read Wight ,■ p, 162, 1. 2, fr. 
top, dele no ; p. 168, 1. 18, fr bot for Dr. read Mr. Eaton ; p. 179, 1. b, 
fr. bot, read/u!//.ry p. 181, 1. 6. £r. top, for character, read charity ; p. 185, 
1. 4, Ir. bot for whose, read -whom ; p. 192, 1. 5, fr. bot, for 30, read 13 ; 
p. 213, 1 3 fr. top, for in, read into ; p, 230, 1. 6, fr. bot for bil's, read bill ,- 
J). 236,1 5 fr top, read MDCCLXXXVI j p. 236,1. 19. fr. top, add, 
He died at South Carolina. Oct, 12, 1743 ; p. f246, 1. 6, fr bot. read Ne-w Eng. 
land i p 264, 1. 4, fr. bot. for 1779 read 1780 ; p. 272, 1. 10, from top, dele 
to; p. 289, 1. 5, fr. top,for Dowes, read Daives ; p. 301, 1. 1, fr. top, read 1776; 
p. 305. 1. 10, fr. bot. for on, read or ; p. 313, 1. 17, fr. bot. read magistrate ; 
p. 331. I. 9. fr. bot. for discharge, read discharged ,- p. 354, 1. 7, fr. bot. 
for 1770, read 1760 ; p. 355, I. 4, fr. top, for tired, read tried ; p. 354, I. 10, 
fr. bot. read council ; p. 363, 1 I, fr. bot for bui'ding, read entering ; p 362, 
Is. 2 and 8, fr. bot. for Popkins, read Popkin ; p. 366, 1. 19, fr. top, for of, 
read off ; p. 366, 1. 22, fr. bot. read, As a companion he was, &c. p 367, 1. 
17, fr. bot. dele an ,• p 369, 1 . 8, fr. top, for do, rea''. doing ,- page 370 ; 1. 5, 
fr. bot. read 1757, add. artillery election sermon, 1736 ; p 373, 1 7, fr. bot. 
read zealous ; p 379, 1 15, fr.bot. dele It -was ; p 396, 1, 19, fr. bot. for had, 
read h?a-ve ; p. 401, 1. 9, fr. top, for plead read pleaded ,- p. 401, 1. 20, fr. bot. 
rt?(A quincys i p. 420 I. 21 fr. top, for 1628, read 1728 ; p. 434,1. 2, fr. bot. 
read record ; p. 461 , 1. 2, fr. top, read, which he answered m'ith very lively, &c. 
p. 473, 1. 7, fr. bot. for of, read off ; p. 487, I. 18. fr. top, for 86, read 77 ; 
in several places where etat is mentioned, the fiist letter should be a dipthong 



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